Bayindir's stellar performance in goal changes Manchester United's FA Cup fortunes.©(@beahuman_first )
ΥAltay Bayindir’s life at Manchester United has dramatically shifted in just a few weeks, proving the unpredictable nature of a footballer’s career. The 26-year-old goalkeeper, who joined the club from Fenerbahce in September 2023 for £4.3m, found himself at the center of criticism in December after a costly mistake during United’s 4-3 Carabao Cup quarter-final defeat to Tottenham. In the 88th minute of that match, Bayindir allowed a direct corner from Son Heung-Min to slip into the net, leaving fans and pundits questioning his ability.
However, the narrative surrounding the Turkey international has taken a complete turn following his heroic performance in the FA Cup third-round clash against Arsenal. Despite being limited to appearances in cup competitions since his arrival at Old Trafford, Bayindir seized his opportunity. With United reduced to 10 men after Diogo Dalot’s red card in the 61st minute, the match went into extra time, and Bayindir emerged as the key figure. His vital save in standard time to deny Martin Ødegaard’s penalty kept United in the game. Then, in the penalty shootout, Bayindir saved a low effort from Kai Havertz, the only penalty missed of the nine taken, ensuring his team advanced.
United manager Ruben Amorim hailed Bayindir’s resilience, stating that footballers’ lives are entire cycles and moments, and Bayindir’s turnaround was a testament to that. “Against Tottenham, everyone was biting their fingers for Altay, and I understand that – today, he was our hero,” said Amorim. “He’s a good guy, he works a lot, and life has beautiful things.”
The goalkeeper’s impressive contributions, which made him the first Premier League goalkeeper since the 2013-14 season to save a penalty in standard time and a shootout in the exact FA Cup match, earned him the Performer of the Match award. After the win, Bayindir expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to play, saying, “I want to make everyone happy for this great club. I’m working here every day. If you are not playing, it doesn’t matter. You have to be ready every minute, every second.”
Analyzing Bayindir’s performance on BBC’s Match of the Day, former England striker Alan Shearer praised the goalkeeper for his composure under pressure. “He holds his nerve; he doesn’t blink first,” Shearer commented. “When you get given an opportunity, you have to take it, and he took it today.”
United captain Bruno Fernandes also acknowledged Bayindir’s determination, highlighting the challenge of being a second-choice goalkeeper. “It’s tough to be the second goalkeeper,” Fernandes said. “He came here to play, and whenever he gets his chance, he’s top class for us. He’s always available for everyone and truly deserves this moment.”
In just one week, Bayindir’s life has changed dramatically, from the harsh spotlight of criticism to the adulation of his teammates and manager. His performance in the FA Cup has not only silenced doubts about his ability but also earned him the respect and admiration of those around him.