Manchester United transfer news has centred heavily around Senne Lammens since his €21m arrival on deadline day. Signed from Club Brugge to be the new No.1, the Belgian keeper was expected to step in immediately, replacing Altay Bayindir, who has failed to convince in the opening weeks.
Yet manager Ruben Amorim has confirmed Bayindir will retain his spot for the Manchester derby — a decision that has drawn sharp criticism from Belgium pundit Johan Boskamp. With Andre Onana shipped out on loan to Trabzonspor, United’s goalkeeper position remains a headline issue going into the City showdown.
Boskamp: “Bayindir is Playing Like a Bun”
Boskamp, speaking to Het Belang van Limburg, did not hold back in his assessment:
“I would have started him straight away, because that Turkish goalkeeper (Altay Bayindir) is playing like a bun. Nonsense! We’re talking about Manchester United here.” — Johan Boskamp, via HBVL
The outspoken analyst argued that United’s global stature means there is always pressure, regardless of the opponent. Holding back Lammens for a supposedly “easier” game, he says, makes no sense:
“One of the most media-covered clubs in the world. Whoever they play, there’s always going to be pressure. Every little mistake is magnified. That’s just part of being a club. If you can’t handle that, you shouldn’t sign with them.” — Johan Boskamp
Why Amorim is Holding Back Lammens
Amorim’s stance appears rooted in bedding Lammens into the squad gradually, rather than exposing him to the high-stakes cauldron of a Manchester derby at the first attempt. The Portuguese coach has a history of carefully integrating signings, and sources suggest he wants the 22-year-old to settle in training before taking over.
Still, with Bayindir unconvincing in his early-season outings, questions are being raised about whether Amorim risks throwing away crucial points in a title race by prioritising caution over form.
Senne Lammens Profile & Stats
| Stat (2024/25) | Senne Lammens |
|---|---|
| Appearances | — |
| Clean Sheets | — |
| Saves per Game | — |
| Pass Accuracy | –% |
source: sofascore match data – 13 September 2025
The Belgian arrives with a reputation for strong reflexes and commanding presence, but he is yet to play a competitive minute for United.
Analyst Verdict – Risky Gamble by Amorim
FootballPlace analyst John William argues Amorim is walking a fine line:
By delaying Lammens’ debut, he avoids potential derby-day nerves derailing the keeper’s confidence. But persisting with Bayindir, who has been shaky and criticised by pundits, risks undermining United’s defensive stability. In high-pressure matches against Manchester City, the margin for error is thin — and goalkeeper indecision could be decisive.
United fans are likely to demand a swift transition, especially if Bayindir falters again. For Lammens, the wait could be short, but expectations will only grow with every match he sits out.
Key Insights
- Ruben Amorim refuses to start Senne Lammens in Manchester derby.
- Johan Boskamp slams decision, says Bayindir is “playing like a bun.”
- Lammens signed from Club Brugge for €21m on deadline day.
- Onana sent on loan, Bayindir remains first choice for now.
- Debate rages over integrating new keeper immediately or easing him in.
What’s Next for United’s Goalkeeping Situation?
If Bayindir starts against City and impresses, Amorim may justify his decision. But another costly mistake could turn fan opinion quickly against the Turkish international — and force the manager’s hand.
Lammens, meanwhile, will likely get his debut in the coming weeks, possibly in a less hostile fixture. But with United’s season ambitions on the line, Amorim’s handling of this transition will be under the microscope.
👉 Should Amorim have started Lammens immediately against City — or was easing him in the smarter play?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *