With Manchester United reportedly resigned to losing Andre Onana when the African Cup of Nations kicks off, Altay Bayindir offered the Red Devils supporters a snapshot of what they can expect should the summer signing from Fenerbahce be catapulted into Erik ten Hag’s XI for a couple of weeks in the New Year (ESPN).
Altay Bayindir started as Turkey took on Germany in a friendly clash on Saturday in Berlin.
And if you were wondering why Manchester United settled on the 6ft 6ins stopper when looking to bring in a high-quality back-up to Old Trafford, Bayindir’s performance during a thrilling 3-2 win in the German capital went a long way to providing an explanation.
Altay Bayindir awaiting Manchester United chance
Any goalkeeper in a Ten Hag team must be as comfortable with the ball at his feet as he is with it in his hands. And there can be no such concerns over that part of Bayindir’s game.
Operating almost as an extra centre-half when Turkey were in possession, the 25-year-old would often wander outside of his penalty area to start attacks from deep. One particularly eye-catching ball very nearly caught out the Germany defence in the first half, an almost Scholes-like through ball forcing opposite number Kevin Trapp into action at the other end.
In fact, Bayindir’s positioning and his use of the ball was almost identical to what United fans have grown used to from Onana. A high starting position, dictating play from deep, and showcasing a range of passes most midfielders would be proud of.
That is not to say Bayindir cannot perform the more traditional parts of the role either. There was very little he could have done about both of Germany’s goals on the night, but the £4.3 million summer signing did make one superb save late in the second half to keep out Julian Brandt. Almost David de Gea-like in the way he blocked a shot with his legs.
Turkey beat Germany
“I liked Altay Bayindir (against Germany),” Mehmet Özdilek, a former Turkey assistant coach, tells Milliyet. “His adventure in England (has) improved Altay’s goalkeeping skills. He has great feet and added value to the game.”
Losing Onana to AFCON is undoubtedly a blow for Manchester United. But it is a blow Bayindir could go some way to easing, if his international performance is anything to go
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