United fans rage at Bayindir howler - demand Donnarumma

Altay Bayindir fails to clear a corner kick that leads to Arsenal's opening goal at Old Trafford (Illustrative image) (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) Getty Images

Altay Bayindir's goalkeeping howler handed Arsenal an early advantage at Old Trafford, sparking fury among Manchester United supporters who demanded immediate transfer action. The Turkish goalkeeper's weak punch from Declan Rice's corner in the 13th minute allowed the ball to drop behind him, gifting Riccardo Calafiori a simple tap-in.

Andre Onana was ruled out through injury, leaving Bayindir as United's number one for the Premier League opener. The 27-year-old's error completely shifted the match momentum, forcing United into defensive counter-attacking mode for much of the contest.

Neville slams goalkeeper performance

Gary Neville delivered a scathing assessment of Bayindir's performance during Sky Sports commentary. "The goalkeeper has got to be stronger," Neville said. "He will complain that he was fouled. He has a player in front of him, there is a lot of pushing and pulling, but he has to be stronger."

The former United defender dismissed claims that William Saliba had impeded the goalkeeper. "I don't think [William] Saliba has done anything wrong. The ball just goes through Bayindir's hands and Calafiori is there to profit," Neville added.

Fans demand immediate reinforcements

United supporters immediately took to social media to vent their frustration and call for transfer action. "I can't believe I'm wishing Andre Onana was fit to start ahead of Bayindir, what a time to be alive," one fan posted.

Multiple supporters specifically demanded the club pursue Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain. "United gotta go ALL IN for Donnarumma," wrote one unimpressed user, with another adding: "Buy Donnarumma now! Oh my God! Here we go again!"

A sixth supporter added: "Go and get Donnarumma. Two clowns as first and second choice. [Tom] Heaton's the best option we have."

Pattern of set-piece errors

Bayindir has struggled with similar mistakes since joining from Fenerbahce in September 2023, particularly when defending set-pieces. The goalkeeper has faced criticism for several high-profile errors throughout his United career.

United have reportedly monitored both Donnarumma and Antwerp's Senne Lammens but have not yet made formal approaches for either goalkeeper. Onana, who United were open to allowing to leave this summer, took part in training during pre-season but was not deemed sharp enough to start at Old Trafford.

Sources used: "Daily Mail", "Daily Star", "Manchester Evening News", "Mirror" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.