Manchester United’s goalkeeper, Andre Onana, is set to represent Cameroon at the upcoming Afcon 24 starting on January 13 in Cote d’Ivoire. However, the shot-stopper has faced criticism for conceding 45 goals this season, contributing to the team’s Champions League exit.
In an effort to ease Onana’s workload, Manchester United signed Altay Bayindir as a second-choice goalkeeper for €7M from Fernabache. Surprisingly, Bayindir has not played a single game this season, raising questions about the manager’s confidence in him.
Despite Onana’s return to the national team after a fallout with first team coach Rigobert Song, he may miss Cameroon’s first game against Guinea due to Manchester United’s request to keep him for their clash with Spurs on January 14. This decision adds uncertainty to Bayindir’s position and suggests doubts from the manager.
Manager Erik Ten Hag’s reluctance to give Bayindir a chance in the FA Cup against Wigan Athletic, despite the perfect opportunity, indicates potential favoritism. This echoes previous accusations against Ten Hag, notably in the case of Jadon Sancho.
Manchester United is grappling with a winger crisis, and the exclusion of Sancho from the lineup raises eyebrows. Ten Hag accused Sancho of underperforming in training, leading to the player’s denial and claims of being a ‘scapegoat’.
The manager’s persistent reliance on players like Antony, who has yet to contribute a goal in the league this season , while neglecting players like Pellistri and Sancho, further fuels suspicions of favoritism affecting team dynamics.
Sitting in 8th place with 31 points, Manchester United faces Tottenham Hotspur next, hoping to turn their season around. The team’s performance and Ten Hag’s decisions will be closely watched as they strive to climb the league table.
As Manchester United navigates the challenges of the season, the unresolved questions surrounding Erik Ten Hag’s managerial decisions cast a shadow over Old Trafford. The delicate balance between squad dynamics and individual preferences remains an ongoing saga.
Will Altay Bayindir be under much more pressure following Onana’s looming absence?
Will Erik Ten Hag’s Favoritism sabotage the team?