Senne Lammens: “I’m Not Schmeichel in Disguise – I’m Just Me”

Senne Lammens Embraces Pressure, Aims for Greatness at Manchester United

New Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens says he is not fazed by the weight of expectation that comes with wearing the gloves at Old Trafford, declaring:

“I’m not Schmeichel in disguise – I’m just Senne Lammens.”

The 23-year-old Belgian, a £18.1m deadline-day signing from Royal Antwerp, has stepped into one of football’s most scrutinised roles and already captured the hearts of United fans. A standing ovation greeted his debut against Sunderland, where chants of “Are you Schmeichel in disguise?” echoed around the stadium after his first save.

But Lammens is under no illusions.

“It’s an amazing compliment, but let’s be realistic. He [Schmeichel] is one of the best ever. I have to prove a lot more to be in that conversation,” he told BBC Sport in an exclusive interview.

Rising to the Challenge

Despite having just one full season of senior football under his belt, Lammens exudes confidence:

“There should be a lot of pressure. That’s what comes with playing for a club like Manchester United. I’m not scared of it.”

His arrival followed turbulent performances from Andre Onana, who was loaned to Trabzonspor, and Altay Bayındır, whose early season displays failed to convince. Lammens has since cemented himself as United’s No.1.

Adapting Fast, Learning Faster

Lammens had made 57 senior appearances before his £18.1m move from Royal Antwerp on 1 September

Lammens admits it took time to settle, especially in training:

“At the start, I had a bit of difficulty. The manager saw that and gave me time to adapt. The Sunderland game was the perfect opportunity for me to start.”

From that point, the trajectory has been upward. Not without errors – a misjudged charge out against Sunderland, a nervy fumble at Anfield, and questions over Danny Welbeck’s goal last weekend – but the positives far outweigh the hiccups.

His long-ball approach, seen particularly in the win over Liverpool, is part tactical, part personal preference:

“Sometimes building from the back can hurt more than help. With the quality we have up front, getting it there quickly makes sense.”

Defensive Trust and Communication

A strong bond with centre-backs Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt is already forming.

“They told me I don’t need to be special – just reliable when it matters. That gives them confidence, and we all feel more relaxed.”

Known for his calmness, Lammens also values his ability to switch gears when needed:

“I’m proud of being collected, but I can be harsh when necessary. Balance is key.”

Eyes on the Future

With United aiming to return to Europe, Lammens is determined to make his mark long-term.

“I want a long career here. Then maybe one day, I can be mentioned alongside Schmeichel, Van der Sar, or De Gea. That would be really nice.”

From his humble beginnings saving shots for his older brother to holding the line at Old Trafford, Lammens’ journey is only just beginning – but he’s already proving he belongs.