Sophia
Manchester United’s newest goalkeeper, Senne Lammens, has opened up about his decision to join the Red Devils, citing a lifelong dream and the undeniable “aura” of the club as key factors. His revelation comes after reports suggested he turned down a more lucrative offer from Premier League rivals Aston Villa.
A Childhood Dream Realized
Lammens, a 23-year-old Belgian international, was the final acquisition for Manchester United in the summer transfer window, arriving from Royal Antwerp on Deadline Day. However, his path to Old Trafford wasn’t straightforward. Aston Villa was also reportedly keen on securing his services, especially with their own goalkeeper, Emiliano Martínez, expressing a desire to move on.
The Daily Mail reported that Villa had even agreed to a more financially appealing deal with Antwerp than United’s initial £18.1 million ($24.3 million) offer. Yet, for Lammens, the allure of Old Trafford proved irresistible.
In his first interview with club media, Lammens articulated the profound personal significance of this move:
“This is my dream move. When I was five [in 2007], United was at the height of football and you keep in your memory how big Manchester United is, so, when I heard they were interested, it was like a childhood dream.”
He fondly recalled watching United’s glory days:
“I remember being a kid, Manchester United winning the Champions League and winning the league. [I want] to help the team get to a level that you can compete for a title again and to play Champions League again. That’s also one of my biggest points, that I want to grow with the team and go up to the heights that used to be Manchester United. It’s one of the biggest clubs in the world and the Premier League is the biggest competition in the world.”
The Unmistakable “Aura” of Old Trafford
Lammens’ decision was further solidified by the experiences of former Premier League players he shared a dressing room with at Royal Antwerp. During his time in Belgium, he played alongside seasoned veterans such as Toby Alderweireld, Vincent Janssen, Dennis Praet, Denis Odoi, Jaïro Riedewald, and Björn Engels.
Their reactions to the mention of Manchester United left a lasting impression on the young goalkeeper:
“When I talked to them about Manchester United, you could directly see their face change. The club alone, the aura of the club, it’s massive, and being here, seeing it, it’s a different level.”
“So, that was also a big part of why I chose Manchester United.”
This sentiment underscores the unique appeal of Manchester United, a club steeped in history and global recognition, capable of attracting top talent even in the face of more lucrative offers.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter at Old Trafford
Lammens’ arrival adds depth and promising talent to United’s goalkeeping ranks. His commitment to the club’s vision of returning to its former glory resonates with the fanbase, eager to see the team challenge for major honors once again. With a clear ambition to grow with the team and compete at the highest level, Senne Lammens is poised to begin an exciting new chapter in his career at one of the world’s most iconic football clubs.
