Senne Lammens’ time at Manchester United took an unexpected turn after the club shifted its summer strategy.
Lammens joined on the final day of the transfer window from Royal Antwerp for £18 million, even though Ruben Amorim initially preferred Emiliano Martinez.
The decision to sign Lammens came from Ineos’ focus on data, and it paid off quickly. He made a solid debut against Sunderland and rapidly became the team’s first-choice goalkeeper.
However, Lammens wasn’t originally expected to be United’s top keeper this season.
Agent explains the behind-the-scenes shifts before Lammens’ transfer
Photo by Manchester United/Manchester United via Getty Images
Onana remained part of the squad until late in the transfer window, when United decided to loan him to Trabzonspor. Amorim lost faith in the 29-year-old, despite Onana’s desire to stay at Old Trafford.
Onana did not want to leave, but the club suggested it was best for him to exit. This wasn’t always the plan earlier in the window.
Lammens’ agent, Mark Volders, discussed the changing plans with Belgian outlet HBVL:
“For a long time, United intended for Onana to stay and for Senne to be given time to adapt.”
“They changed their minds only at the very end. Onana moved, and Senne was ready. Looking back, United made the right choice.”
Manchester United’s confidence in Senne Lammens
Lammens wasn’t a high-profile signing for Manchester United. He didn’t carry the same reputation as players like Martinez or Donnarumma.
Now, halfway through the 2025/26 season, it’s evident that United made a wise decision.
Lammens has shown he possesses the qualities needed to be a goalkeeper for Manchester United. He remains calm under pressure, effectively manages his area, and handles challenging situations with ease.
The data indicated a goalkeeper with significant potential, and Ineos took a chance on him. At 23 years old, Lammens appears to be a long-term solution for Manchester United’s goalkeeping needs.
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