Source: Manchester United
Manchester United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir has issued a lengthy social media message reflecting on the club’s arduous 2024/25 season, notably concluding with a defiant “see you next season” amidst ongoing speculation about his future.
Bayindir was handed a rare start in Manchester United’s final game of the campaign against Aston Villa, with regular first-choice Andre Onana omitted from the squad.
The match offered a momentary scare for the Turkish international when he lost possession of a loose ball in the second half, an error that Ollie Watkins capitalized on to put Aston Villa 1-0 up.
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Fortunately for Bayindir, the goal was disallowed as the referee had already blown the whistle before the incident. While Manchester United went on to win the game 2-0, the moment served to highlight the perceived shakiness that has led to him being considered a potential departure in an anticipated summer clearout.
Despite these perceptions and reports tipping him for an exit, Bayindir’s heartfelt Instagram post suggests he has other plans, signaling his clear expectation to remain at Old Trafford.
In his message, Bayindir acknowledged the difficulties of the past season:
“This season wasn’t everything we hoped for, a journey shaped by challenges, growth, and lessons I’ll carry with me. We started out with ambition, ready to embrace every opportunity. As the months went on, the team’s dynamic evolved, and the arrival of a new coach brought renewed belief and direction.”
He expressed profound gratitude for the opportunities given to him by the current management: “His trust in me, and his willingness to give me a chance, meant more than words can say. I’ll always be grateful for the chance to grow under his leadership.”
Bayindir detailed his commitment and the personal struggles he faced: “Throughout the season, I gave everything I had every match, every minute.
Some moments stood out more than others, like the Arsenal game, where I was proud to be recognised for a performance that pushed me to my limits. But football has its own rhythm, and just as things were coming together, I was sidelined with a long-term injury. Ten weeks out brought pain and frustration but also perspective.
The road back wasn’t easy. I stayed focused, worked hard every day, and slowly began to find my rhythm again. Every minute back on the pitch reminded me what it took to return and just how much this game means to me.”
He concluded with a resolute statement of resilience and appreciation: “Football teaches you resilience. It teaches you to keep showing up and keep believing, even when things don’t go your way.
And through it all, I couldn’t be prouder of the team I stood beside and prouder still to wear red. To the coach, the staff, and everyone working behind the scenes, to my teammates, who give everything every single day, To the fans, who never stop showing up, and to my family and friends, for their constant love and support, thank you.
We’re disappointed because we care. But better days are coming – and when they do, I’ll be ready. See you next season. Always grateful.”
Bayindir received significantly more opportunities under the current manager, featuring in nine games, including four in the Premier League, compared to just two appearances under former boss Erik ten Hag.
This increased trust is clearly something Bayindir values, and his message strongly implies he anticipates being a part of the squad moving forward.
However, speculation regarding his departure has been rife, with reports from outlets like iNews suggesting that Turkish clubs are keen to offer him the regular first-team football he desires.
Manchester United also possess young goalkeeping options in Radek Vitek and Elyh Harrison, who could potentially be developed to step up behind a new number one.
If Bayindir is indeed determined to stay as a number two, despite having demonstrated that he may not be the long-term solution as a first-choice goalkeeper (aside from his standout FA Cup performance against Arsenal), Manchester United could find themselves in a challenging position regarding their goalkeeping plans for the next season.