Senne Lammens has wasted no time making his mark at Manchester United, and his first months at Old Trafford have revealed surprises even he didn’t expect.
Since joining Manchester United, Senne Lammens has settled more quickly than many expected. While he arrived as a long-term project, rather than an immediate first-choice goalkeeper, his early performances in training and Premier League matches have impressed the coaching staff.
Observers have noted his commanding presence in the box, his strong shot-stopping ability, and his composure when playing out from the back, traits that align well with United’s evolving tactical approach. Beyond his on-field abilities, Lammens has been a particularly valuable addition because he fits the long-term structure United are trying to build.
The young Belgian offers something the clubs have lacked in years gone by: a young goalkeeper with both high potential and the excitement to grow patiently in a competitive environment. Whilst United have often struggled with their first-choice goalkeeper, Lammens has provided stability in between the sticks this season.
His predecessor, Andre Onana, was loaned to Trabzonspor in the Turkish top flight and has been left out of the squad for the African Cup of Nations, while his second-choice, Altay Bayindir, remains on the United bench.
Lammens reveals what surprised him at Old Trafford
In an interview with Stadium Astro, Lammens was asked about who he is closest to in the United dressing room: “I would say maybe Tom Heaton or the fourth goalkeeper Dermot Mee or also, like, the Dutch guys, because it’s easier with the language as well.
“I think just in general that’s what surprised me the most. It’s just the togetherness of the group and of the dressing room. Everyone was really nice. So I don’t really want to say one or two guys. It’s in general with everybody, to be honest.”
Lammens already appears to be settled into life in Manchester, but his ability to combine technical skill, tactical awareness, and two-footed distribution has already made him a key figure in training and matchday squads, highlighting why United view him as a long-term investment in the goalkeeping department.
The goalkeeper went on to say: “Being a complete goalkeeper is something I take pride in. It’s not just stop-stopping, it’s coming out for crosses and helping the defence when the balls go behind them. My distribution as well, but what I’m most proud of is being able to play with my left foot and right. That makes it more difficult for the opponent to press me. Coming out for crosses is really difficult in the Premier League, especially.”
If Lammens continues on his current trajectory, he could become a long-term solution for United’s goalkeeping problems, while also influencing the squad’s culture. He could be a crucial man in the rebuild at Old Trafford.
What Lammens’s Arrival Means for United’s Future
For United, Lammens could be a blend of youth, potential, and maturity – a rare combination in a position that has been such an issue since David de Gea left the club. His early performances and calm presence could be the start of stability in between the Stretford End sticks.
His short tenure at Old Trafford suggests Lammens could thrive when United return to the Champions League. Furthermore, Lammens adds solid depth to United’s goalkeeping options. United already had Elyh Harrison and Radek Vitek as future goalkeeping talents, and now they have Lammens too.
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His comments about the “togetherness” in the squad serve as a step in the right direction. Looking in from the outside, United seem to be struggling to come together and fight for points, but Lammens’ words could suggest Amorim’s turnaround is closer than first thought.
If the team can maintain that vibe while building tactically and technically, Lammens might become a cornerstone of a renewed United identity. His presence has also had a subtle but significant effect on the squad’s younger players. By demonstrating professionalism, discipline, and a proactive approach to preparation, he has set an example for those coming through the academy.
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