Ruben Amorim has announced that Altay Bayindir, Manchester United’s back-up goalkeeper, will start in Sunday’s FA Cup third-round clash against Arsenal at the Emirates.
The Turkish international steps in for Andre Onana as Amorim looks to continue the momentum from last week’s spirited 2-2 draw with Liverpool at Anfield.
While the Premier League draw yielded only a point, it showcased an improved performance from the Red Devils, bolstering morale against the league leaders.
Amorim, determined to maintain this progress, confirmed his intention to field a strong lineup, despite choosing to rest his first-choice goalkeeper.
In a press conference on Friday, Amorim addressed his selection, stating, “Altay will play. It’s a special position, and we’ve decided to give him this opportunity.” Bayindir, who joined United from Fenerbahce in 2023, has yet to make his Premier League debut.
He has, however, featured in three Carabao Cup matches this season and made a solitary FA Cup appearance last year, conceding twice in a match against Newport County.
The Manchester United boss emphasized the importance of consistency in his lineup but acknowledged that rotation might still occur to manage player fitness.
“We’re improving as a team and want to continue that trajectory. We’ve trained and rested well, so I’ll choose the best players to give us the chance to win,” Amorim explained.
Having experimented with squad rotations earlier in his tenure to assess the team’s strengths, Amorim now prioritizes stability. However, he noted the need for adaptability, saying, “Sometimes fresh legs are necessary, especially when players are performing at similar levels. It’s about finding the right balance and solutions to win every game.”
Amorim is optimistic about United’s prospects in the FA Cup, highlighting the mental and physical boost a victory could provide. “In cup competitions, anything can happen.
Winning these games can change the mindset and help us manage the physical demands of the season,” he added.
As United prepare for a challenging test at Arsenal, all eyes will be on Bayindir, who has a rare chance to prove his worth and contribute to the team’s pursuit of silverware.