Manchester United’s Goalkeeping Woes Deepen as Onana Falters and Bayindir Considers Exit
Manchester United’s goalkeeping conundrum has come under renewed scrutiny, with André Onana’s poor form and Altay Bayindir’s uncertain future creating significant dilemmas for the club and new manager Rúben Amorim.
The situation became even more pressing following United’s recent match, where Onana’s mistake once again cost the team dearly — this time gifting Crystal Palace their opening goal.
The Cameroonian international, who was brought in as David de Gea’s replacement, has been far from convincing since arriving from Inter Milan. His repeated errors have prompted serious concerns about his reliability as United’s long-term solution in goal.
Despite Onana’s recurring issues, United’s second-choice goalkeeper Altay Bayindir continues to be overlooked.
Since signing from Fenerbahçe, the Turkish international has found first-team opportunities hard to come by.
Although he made a commendable debut in the Europa League and followed it up with solid performances in domestic cup matches including a memorable FA Cup appearance against Arsenal where he made crucial penalty saves Bayindir has yet to feature in the Premier League.
His continued absence from league games has left many fans puzzled, particularly given Onana’s form.
Under Erik ten Hag, Bayindir was largely ignored, as the former manager stuck by Onana despite widespread criticism.
However, Amorim’s arrival has introduced a slightly different dynamic, with Bayindir being included more frequently in cup matches. Still, the Turkish shot-stopper remains far from a regular, and his frustration is reportedly growing.
According to reports from Turkey, Bayindir is now seriously considering a move away from Old Trafford, with his primary aim being to secure regular playing time and bolster his chances of becoming Turkey’s first-choice goalkeeper.
One likely destination is Galatasaray, who are preparing for the possible departure of long-time goalkeeper Fernando Muslera.
The Turkish giants have identified Bayindir as an ideal replacement and have already initiated talks with his representatives.
Other Süper Lig clubs are said to be interested as well, but Galatasaray appear to be leading the race for his signature.
With Bayindir under contract at United until 2027, the club could demand a transfer fee of around €10 million, especially if competition for his services increases.
Complicating Bayindir’s prospects at United even further is the club’s rumored interest in Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel.
The Swiss international has emerged as a potential summer target, signaling that the club may be looking for a more dependable presence between the posts.
Furthermore, Amorim is reportedly impressed with young goalkeeper Elyh Harrison from the club’s academy, who could also be integrated into the first team in the near future.
Should United proceed with signing a new goalkeeper, Bayindir’s position would become increasingly untenable. Despite his talent and glimpses of potential, the path to regular minutes looks bleak at Old Trafford.
Whether Amorim decides to give him more responsibility or looks elsewhere remains to be seen, but what is clear is that Bayindir’s patience is wearing thin.
The coming months are likely to be crucial in determining whether his stint in England will come to an early end.
