Senne Lammens vs Altay Bayindir: Amorim must make this bold decision to save his job – opinion | OneFootball

Manchester United are facing a defensive crisis this season, with the team leaking goals in almost every game.

Both Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir have been massive culprits for this issue, with the former being shipped out to Trabzonspor on a season-long loan.

Furthermore, Man United decided to bring in Senne Lammens in the transfer window, seemingly bolstering their prospects between the sticks.

Despite already arriving at the club in time for the Manchester derby, the Belgian was not selected for the match, with Bayindir appearing in what was a devastating defeat.

This was a massive mistake on the part of manager Ruben Amorim for three key reasons.

1. The Sesko scenario

Much like Lammens, striker Benjamin Sesko did also not start for United upon moving to the club.

In all of his first three Premier League matches, Sesko came on as a late substitute, receiving only a combined 80 minutes on the pitch.

By the time that he started in his first match against City, he appeared out of his depth. While he managed to take a decent shot early on and win a few aerial duels, it was the wrong game to give the Slovenian his first start.

He should have been afforded the opportunity to play more minutes beforehand, enabling him to adjust to life at United so that he would be able to take to the field more comfortably, especially against opponents of such a high calibre.

By delaying Lammens’ debut, Amorim is giving him no favours, only prolonging the adjustment process.

2. Follow successful examples

In contrast to Sesko, Amorim gave fellow signings Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo plenty of game time from the start.

Mbeumo scored a crucial goal in the 3-2 victory over Burnley as well as a sensational strike in the League Cup tie against Grimsby Town. He also has an unbelievable 100% long ball accuracy in the Premier League to date, while averaging three shots per game to remain a thorn in any goalkeeper’s side. (Sofascore)

Prior to his injury, Cunha proved highly productive as well, posting 87% passing and 100% chip passing, not to mention 4/6 dribbling against Arsenal in the first match of the season. (Sofascore)

Unlike Sesko, Cunha and Mbeumo have been afforded sufficient time on the pitch to adjust to the Premier League and gel with their teammates, ensuring that they feel comfortable at United. Amorim would do well to afford Lammens the same opportunity.

3. One clear winner

When comparing Lammens to Bayindir this season, there’s one player who clearly outperforms the other.

In four Premier League appearances, Bayindir has 53% saves. This pales in comparison to Lammens’ 73% saves in as many Belgian Pro League games.

Furthermore, Bayindir’s tendency for blunders has persisted this season. His weakness at corners was evident against Arsenal, as was his questionable handling against the likes of Fulham and Burnley.

Ultimately, by persisting with Bayindir, Amorim is only putting his defence in further jeopardy, meaning that even if the team as a whole performs well on any given day, goalkeeper blunders could undo all their hard work.

Unless Amorim selects Lammens and gives United their best chance to turn their fortunes around, he could be shown to the exit door sooner than expected.

Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images

online polls

Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social