Amorim defends Bayindir after United keeper blunder hands Arsenal win

Ruben Amorim defended Altay Bayindir after a costly error at Old Trafford that allowed Arsenal to win.

Amorim defends Bayindir after United keeper blunder hands Arsenal win

Manchester United hosted Arsenal at Old Trafford and Altay Bayindir made a costly mistake from Declan Rice’s corner, letting Riccardo Calafiori head in the winner. United argued Bayindir was impeded, and Amorim pointed to how corners can unfold and said goalkeepers must still act within the rules when contact happens.

Amorim also denied that he had dropped Onana from the matchday squad, citing the keeper’s hamstring rehab and the need for time in training. He defended the three goalkeeper setup and stressed there was no intention to bench Onana. The manager noted United’s new signing Benjamin Sesko has come in for a big fee, while the status of Rasmus Hojlund remains unsettled, and he praised his own squad’s ability to win with depth. Arsenal’s win was celebrated by Mikel Arteta, who also spoke highly of Viktor Gyökeres on his debut.

The episode at Old Trafford highlights how a single defensive moment can tilt a game in the Premier League, especially when squads rely on rotation between goalkeepers. Bayindir’s misjudgment underscores the pressure on young custodians when injuries or suspensions pile up. It also spotlights the balance managers strike between risk and experience in rotation, and how spending priorities shape those calls.

Beyond the specific error, the incident feeds a broader narrative about squad depth and market choices. Amourim championed his goalkeeping trio as a strength, while transfer activity around United signals that financial decisions continue to influence starting lineups well into the season. The outcome leaves both clubs facing questions about defensive organization and how to translate depth into consistency over a busy campaign.

Highlights

The season will test how well the squads balance risk, depth and discipline.