Manchester United’s trip to Craven Cottage for their first away game of the 2025/26 Premier League season has reignited a storm of debate among fans, after Ruben Amorim once again opted to start Altay Bayindir ahead of Andre Onana.
The United manager made just one change from the side that lost to Arsenal on opening weekend, with Amad Diallo coming in for Diogo Dalot. But it was the goalkeeping situation that dominated pre-match discussions. Despite being the club’s first-choice since arriving from Inter Milan in 2023, Onana was named on the bench for the second game running, sparking speculation about his future under Amorim.
On Reddit and X (formerly Twitter), sections of United’s fanbase voiced suspicion that Onana may no longer be part of Amorim’s long-term plans.
One fan posted: “Looks like Amorim wants him out. You don’t bench your No.1 two games in a row unless something bigger is going on.”
Another supporter drew comparisons with past United goalkeeper dramas: “This feels like déjà vu. We had the De Gea vs. Henderson saga, and now it’s Onana vs. Bayindir. Amorim might be laying the groundwork for a permanent change.”
Others were more cautious, arguing that the Portuguese coach could simply be making tactical calls in the early stages of the season. “Maybe he’s rotating because of fixtures, but it’s strange to rest your keeper twice when you need momentum,” wrote another fan.
For many, the situation echoes previous dilemmas at Old Trafford, where goalkeeping debates have often dominated headlines. From David de Gea’s eventual decline and exit, to Dean Henderson’s brief rise, United fans are no strangers to seeing uncertainty between the posts.
Onana’s own spell has been turbulent since joining from Inter. While his shot-stopping has delivered big moments, his distribution and occasional high-profile errors last season made him a lightning rod for criticism. Amorim, known for building his teams on pressing intensity and discipline, may simply be unconvinced that Onana fits his system.
If Amorim is indeed phasing out Onana, it would be a bold statement just two games into the season. Having already shown his willingness to shuffle senior players, the Portuguese appears intent on stamping his authority and reshaping the squad to fit his philosophy.
Whether this is a short-term tactical experiment or a sign of an impending transfer decision, one thing is clear: Andre Onana’s position at Manchester United is under more scrutiny than ever before.
And with Bayindir grasping his opportunity, Amorim may soon face the toughest decision of his early reign — stick with his gamble, or risk unsettling a big-name player who arrived with the expectation of being United’s undisputed No.1.
Kick-off against Fulham is set for 4:30 p.m. BST, but for many fans, the biggest question will not be about the result — it will be about Onana’s future.
