It’s rare for a newcomer to walk into Old Trafford and immediately command attention — but that’s exactly what Senne Lammens has done. The 22-year-old Belgian goalkeeper, who arrived at Manchester United with little hype, has quickly become one of the club’s most talked-about figures, earning rave reviews from teammates, coaches, and even legends of the game.
Lammens’ signing flew under the radar, but his impact has been impossible to ignore. In just a few sessions at Carrington, his composure, lightning reactions, and towering 6’6” frame have drawn comparisons to Thibaut Courtois, his compatriot and one of the best goalkeepers in world football.
Head coach Rúben Amorim has been particularly vocal in his praise. Known for his demanding standards, Amorim rarely hands out compliments — yet after Lammens’ stellar debut, he couldn’t resist. “He plays with a personality I love — calm, intelligent, always in control,” Amorim said. “He reminds me of Courtois in his early years.”
That debut performance was nothing short of spectacular. Under the floodlights of Old Trafford, Lammens delivered a commanding display, keeping a clean sheet and producing a world-class fingertip save that brought fans to their feet. His leadership, communication, and composure under pressure made him look like a seasoned veteran rather than a recent arrival.
Behind the scenes, the Belgian has also impressed with his professionalism. He’s known to be one of the first to arrive and last to leave training, spending hours analyzing footage and studying opposition strikers. One United staff member described him as “hungry but humble — a player with the mentality of a champion.”
Even Thibaut Courtois has taken notice. Reports suggest the Real Madrid keeper privately contacted Rio Ferdinand to praise Lammens, calling him “the next big thing” and offering to mentor him through advice and feedback. For Lammens, who idolized Courtois growing up, such recognition marks a dream moment.
However, while Lammens’ rise has been a bright spot, Manchester United’s overall form remains under scrutiny. A controversial 3–1 defeat to Brentford sparked outrage after a clear penalty for Mason Mount was denied, with VAR refusing to intervene. Former captain Gary Neville labelled the call “an absolute howler,” and later, referee chief Howard Webb admitted officials made a mistake.
Amorim, outwardly composed, is said to be furious behind closed doors, believing the missed penalty cost United vital points and intensified pressure on him. “If that decision goes our way, it’s a completely different conversation this week,” one insider told local media.
Still, there are positives on the horizon. Lisandro Martínez is nearing a return from his ACL injury, potentially as soon as the October 19 clash with Liverpool, while Benjamin Šeško continues to impress in training with his pace, finishing, and growing partnership with Marcus Rashford and Mason Mount.
Amorim’s decision-making remains a talking point, particularly after benching Matheus Cunha against Sunderland. Mount justified his start with an early goal and dominant display, but Cunha’s energetic cameo reignited the side. His post-match message, “We keep fighting. Always,” resonated deeply with fans who admire his passion.
For Amorim, competition is crucial. He’s building a squad where no player is guaranteed a spot — one defined by effort and ambition. In Lammens, Šeško, Cunha, and Mount, he sees the backbone of a new United: young, fearless, and disciplined.
As the 2025 season unfolds, United’s story promises to be one of resilience and renewal. Amid controversy, growing pains, and glimpses of brilliance, Senne Lammens has emerged as a symbol of hope — a calm presence amid chaos, and perhaps the long-term solution to Manchester United’s search for a world-class goalkeeper.
Old Trafford’s new guardian has arrived — and if Amorim’s belief proves right, Lammens could be the next great name between the posts in Manchester United history.
