‘In one week, your life can change’ – Man Utd hail ‘hero’ Bayindir

Even with a second-choice team, life can be challenging for a goalkeeper, especially when competing for one of the biggest clubs in the world.

Altay Bayindir was the subject of ridicule in December when he conceded direct from Son Heung-Min’s 88th-minute corner in Manchester United’s agonising 4-3 Carabao Cup quarter-final cup defeat by Tottenham.

But, just one month, and one appearance, later, his manager Ruben Amorim described him as “our hero” as the 26-year-old made the crucial contribution to his side’s FA Cup third-round win at Arsenal on penalties after a 1-1 draw.

Since joining United in September 2023 for £4.3 million from Fenerbahce, the Turkey international has only played in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup for four games this season.

Despite having Diogo Dalot sent off in the 61st minute of a game that went into extra time and feeling pained after that Tottenham defeat and doubts about his ability, Bayindir won the game and received the praise as United defeated the Gunners at Emirates Stadium.

“Your life as a footballer has cycles and moments”, admitted United boss Amorim.

“Sometimes in one week, your life can change and you can see]that with] Altay. Everyone was licking their fists for Altay, and I am aware that Tottenham is currently home.

” He’s a good guy, he works a lot and life has beautiful things.

“All of the players in this team have a chance, and they are fortunate because they represent Manchester United,” the captain said. It doesn’t matter if you play one game or 90 games, it’s always a joy to play for this club”.

The 72nd minute penalty from Martin Odegaard was saved by Bayindir in the corner that changed the game’s momentum. Arsenal would have led 2-1 at that point with an extra man advantage.

In response to that, United used defensive defiance to end the game, where Bayindir once more stretched his 6 foot 6in frame to stop Kai Havertz’s only spot-kick, which was missed by nine of the nine attempts, to take the lead.

Named player of the match afterwards, Bayindir said he just wanted “to help this great team”.

“I want to cheer up this fantastic club for everyone. I’m working here every day”. he added.

“If you are not playing, it doesn’t matter. You have to be ready every minute, every second. You must always be prepared if you play for the Man Utd.

Former England striker Alan Shearer, speaking on BBC’s Match of the Day coverage, said the goalkeeper was “absolutely outstanding”.

“He holds his nerve, he doesn’t blink first”, he added. “When you get given an opportunity, you have to take it and he took it today”.

United captain Bruno Fernandes, whose fine opening goal was cancelled out by Gabriel’s strike for Arsenal, added: “It’s a big moment for him, the first penalty and another save here and we are really happy for him.