
Lammens Impresses on Manchester United Debut Amid Goalkeeping Crisis
Are You Schmeichel in Disguise? Lammens Stands Tall on United Debut
Manchester United fans finally had something to cheer about in goal, as Senne Lammens delivered a composed debut performance during a much-needed clean sheet against Sunderland.
With pressure mounting on head coach Ruben Amorim, and fan confidence in Altay Bayindir and Andre Onana at an all-time low, Lammens’ introduction offered both relief and promise.
Stretford End Serenades New No.1
Lammens was even treated to a tongue-in-cheek chant from the Stretford End – “Are you Schmeichel in disguise?” – reflecting fans’ longing for a reliable presence between the sticks.
While not faultless, the 23-year-old showed poise and potential that Bayindir has failed to display this season.
Key Saves and Composed Presence
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First half: Denied Granit Xhaka with a sharp low save.
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Second half: Stood tall to block a one-on-one against Chemsdine Talbi.
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Not without danger: A risky charge out of goal nearly backfired but was spared by the referee’s booking of Bertrand Traore for simulation.
Lammens completed 44 passes, with an 86.4% long pass ratio, indicating Amorim’s plan to bypass pressure via direct distribution — a stark contrast to Bayindir’s 56.5% season average.
Amorim: “In Our Club, Things Are Really Hard”
Speaking after the game, Ruben Amorim explained the delay in giving Lammens his debut:
“He needed to adapt to a new country, new training, and the pressure from media. But he did well and was comfortable during the game.”
Former midfielder Leon Osman, commentating on BBC Radio 5 Live, agreed:
“Letting him settle was smart. You can’t just throw a young keeper into the fire at Old Trafford.”
United’s Bigger Picture
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Three consecutive home wins for the first time in over two years.
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First clean sheet of the season.
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Momentum needed: United still haven’t won back-to-back Premier League games under Amorim.
Up next is a critical run: Liverpool, Brighton, Forest, Spurs, Everton, Palace — a stretch that will likely determine Amorim’s future.
Amorim: “They Don’t Want to Change Coach All the Time”
Despite criticism, Amorim still feels the squad backs him:
“I know they want to do their best. But being with the manager means showing it in every transition. We need to prove it with actions.”
Goalscorer Mason Mount echoed that sentiment:
“We’re behind the coach. We’re building something.”
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