Lammens admits confidence hit by 'difficult weeks' at United ahead of Pochettino era

Senne Lammens has openly acknowledged that his confidence has taken a significant hit during what he describes as “difficult weeks” at Manchester United, as the club’s worst start to a season in more than 40 years continues to weigh on its players.

The 24-year-old goalkeeper, who impressed after joining from Royal Antwerp last season, has come under sustained scrutiny this campaign. His form was called into question most sharply following United’s 4-4 draw with Aston Villa, in which he was held responsible for two goals conceded inside the opening four minutes.

Former United winger Ashley Young was among the critics, saying: “He hasn’t been the same since that mistake at the World Cup.” Roy Keane added: “The goalkeeper needs to do better. Lammens has cost Man United points on several occasions in recent weeks. Few keepers at United have bounced back after such a performance.” The World Cup reference points to Lammens’ costly error as a second-half substitute for the injured Thibaut Courtois in Belgium’s quarter-final defeat to Spain.

Lammens, speaking to Belgian newspaper Het Nieuwsblad while on international duty, did not shy away from the reality of his situation. “I try to remain stoic,” he said. “I avoid everything that is said and written as much as possible, but that’s not always possible because of the situation at United. It’s been a difficult few weeks, I’m not gonna lie.”

The keeper hinted that the Belgium camp has offered him a welcome respite. “Keeping your distance and relativising is not always obvious. Am I glad to show myself to England? I’m especially happy to show myself to Belgium. I’m coming home a little bit. I know all the players well, the system. It helps to boost self-confidence after difficult weeks at United.”

Lammens delivered a timely reminder of his ability by playing a key role in Belgium’s 2-1 Nations League victory over Turkey on Thursday. He will face Italy in the group’s final fixture before returning to United to begin work under newly appointed head coach Mauricio Pochettino.

Lammens has also stepped into the role of Belgium’s first-choice goalkeeper after Courtois, 34, took a break from international duty. Head coach Mark van Bommel has made clear that the Real Madrid stopper is not guaranteed a starting berth on his return, a dynamic that could further consolidate Lammens’ standing at international level — even as questions about his club form remain unresolved heading into the Pochettino era.