Manchester United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir delivered a stunning performance as his team defeated Arsenal in a dramatic FA Cup clash at the Emirates Stadium. Despite playing with 10 men, United advanced to the fourth round, thanks to Bayindir’s heroics.
Bruno Fernandes opened the scoring shortly after halftime, but Arsenal equalized through Gabriel two minutes after Diogo Dalot’s red card.
Dominating possession, Arsenal created numerous opportunities but struggled to convert due to poor finishing and Bayindir’s exceptional goalkeeping.
The Turkish shot-stopper made key saves, including a spectacular dive to deny Martin Odegaard’s penalty and a full-stretch effort to tip Declan Rice’s shot past the post.
In the penalty shootout, Bayindir overshadowed Arsenal’s first-choice goalkeeper David Raya, saving Kai Havertz’s crucial spot-kick to seal United’s victory.
Reflecting on the match, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised Bayindir, saying, “The goalkeeper was probably the best player today. We deserved to win, but things didn’t go our way. Penalties are always unpredictable.”
Bayindir, who joined Manchester United from Fenerbahçe in 2023, earned just his fifth appearance but proved why he’s a vital asset for the team.
“You have to be ready every minute as a Manchester United player. I’m patient, I’m working, and I’m here to help this great team,” Bayindir said post-match.
His stellar performance earned accolades, including praise from Premier League legend Alan Shearer. “Altay Bayindir was absolutely outstanding. He held his nerve during Odegaard’s penalty and made another crucial save in the shootout,” Shearer said.
After eliminating 14-time winners Arsenal, FA Cup holders Manchester United will face Leicester City in the next round, bolstered by Bayindir’s unforgettable performance.