‘Just a Normal Guy’ – Senne Lammens’ Brilliant Rise at Manchester United

Less than 48 hours after being described as “bloody brilliant” by manager David Moyes, Senne Lammens was standing in front of a group of primary school children, answering questions about reading habits and playground memories.

There were no grand statements. No superstar aura. Just a 23-year-old goalkeeper determined to present himself as he sees it — ordinary.

“I try to show the world I’m just a normal guy,” Lammens said during a World Book Day event organised by Manchester United’s foundation. “Show these children that everyone can make it.”

In a sport often defined by spectacle and self-promotion, Lammens’ understated approach feels almost rebellious.

From Antwerp to Old Trafford

When United signed the Belgian from Royal Antwerp in the summer for £18.1 million, expectations were measured. He was seen as a promising addition, not an immediate solution.

Circumstances accelerated his rise.

A costly error from Andre Onana in a shock cup defeat prompted a loan move away, while inconsistent early-season results under Altay Bayindir opened the door. Lammens took his opportunity — and has not relinquished it since.

His commanding display in a 1-0 win over Everton crystallised his growing influence. One acrobatic save to deny Michael Keane drew headlines. But Moyes’ praise centred less on theatrics and more on authority — particularly under a barrage of corners into his six-yard box.

It was not glamorous. It was decisive.

Substance Over Show

“The first thing you have to do as a goalkeeper is make saves,” Lammens explained. “But I take pride in doing the other things well.”

It is a philosophy shaped by admiration for Manuel Neuer — the archetype of the modern, all-round goalkeeper. Lammens does not chase highlight-reel moments. He values positioning, communication and trust.

That trust is now visible in United’s defensive structure. There is a calmness when crosses are delivered, a collective belief that their goalkeeper will manage the chaos.

Former United keeper Edwin van der Sar has praised his development publicly, while Belgium’s established number one Thibaut Courtois has spoken warmly of his compatriot’s potential.

The endorsements matter. But Lammens does not dwell on them.

A Big Decision, Justified

United’s goalkeeping scout Tony Coton reportedly championed Lammens’ signing, even as then-manager Ruben Amorim preferred the experience of World Cup winner Emiliano Martínez.

It was a gamble — youth over proven pedigree.

So far, the evidence supports the call.

Lammens has started 21 consecutive league matches under three different head coaches, establishing himself as United’s undisputed number one. His clean sheet percentage and goals-prevented metrics compare favourably within the squad, even if raw save totals do not always lead internal charts.

Supporters, more than statistics, tell the story. There is little appetite for a return to previous hierarchies. The shirt feels claimed.

Adapting to the Premier League

The Belgian speaks openly about the adjustment.

“I was always told England was the best league, but the physicality is the biggest difference,” he said. “Now there are more bodies in front of you. You have to be big and not be pushed around easily.”

At 6ft 4in, Lammens possesses the physical presence to withstand aerial bombardments. Yet it is his composure amid traffic that stands out most. England’s set-piece culture demands decisiveness. Hesitation is punished.

Veteran third-choice goalkeeper Tom Heaton has played a quiet mentoring role, advising patience and emotional balance — particularly in high-pressure moments when the game threatens to spiral.

Lammens listens. He rarely overplays.

Beyond the Spotlight

Away from Carrington, football does not dominate his downtime. He prefers basketball to late-night Premier League replays, choosing detachment over obsession.

It is part of the balance he is keen to protect.

“I don’t only want to be looked at as a football player, but also just a normal person with his own beliefs,” he said. “I hope that doesn’t change.”

The comment feels sincere rather than scripted. There is little sense of a carefully curated persona. At a time when image management is often strategic, Lammens’ authenticity resonates.

Not Satisfied — Yet

Despite the praise and growing security in his position, Lammens resists complacency.

“I still have to prove myself every week,” he said. “I’m not satisfied by it. I am happy it went well but it’s not the end.”

For Manchester United, that mentality may be as valuable as any reflex save.

The club has spent recent seasons searching for stability between the posts. In Lammens, they appear to have found not just a goalkeeper capable of brilliance — but one grounded enough to handle it.

He may call himself normal.

But at Old Trafford, he is quietly becoming indispensable.