Liverpool legend criticizes Manchester United’s number one goalkeeper

Liverpool legend Steve Nicol thinks Senne Lammens, a summer 2025 recruit by manager Ruben Amorim, has delivered just an ordinary performance rather than the excellent level that’s being celebrated.

Although they finished 15th in the Premier League last season, Manchester United still backs Amorim in the summer transfer window, spending over £200 million on four players: Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford, Matheus Cunha from Wolves, Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig, and Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp.

Among them, Mbeumo — a £65 million signing — has been the standout so far with 7 goals across all competitions, while Cunha has performed well and contributed significantly to the Red Devils’ style of play. Sesko still needs time to prove himself. Meanwhile, Lammens has experienced a turbulent few months at United, quickly securing the number one spot under Amorim but conceding 15 goals in 10 appearances.

Four of those goals came from the 4-4 draw against Bournemouth and Liverpool legend Steve Nicol feels that match further proves that the goalkeeper’s performance since joining United has been merely adequate. Nicol’s viewpoint emphasized: "Manchester United played very poorly in midfield during the recent match between the two clubs. That midfield couldn’t stop any team, whether it was Bournemouth or any other club.

Looking at Lammens, he is an okay goalkeeper. That’s my opinion. I can’t recall any truly impressive saves from him since he started for United. There hasn’t been a single save that made you say, wow, how did he stop that shot? Both goalkeepers in that game were average. He made a save with his feet that he probably would have caught if he had stood still. I’m not saying he’s United’s biggest problem, but when a crucial save is needed, sorry, I don’t think this guy can make it.”

Speaking about his former club, ex-striker Dimitar Berbatov openly pointed out major defensive concerns for Manchester United after their dramatic 4-4 draw with Bournemouth at Old Trafford: "For Manchester United, big questions arise again about how to stop conceding goals. Even when playing with five defenders, they still let in easy goals.

If I knew the answer, I’d probably be the manager of this club already. Everyone hopes a solution will come soon because dropping points will leave you far from the top spot you aim for by season’s end.

The entire team, from the system to each individual, needs to perform better both with and without the ball tactically. This comes from making mistakes and learning. Young players need to learn and adapt faster.”