Aston Villa standout Emi Martinez during the summer instead of Senne Lammens, as reported by Andy Mitten.
United were active in the transfer market, reinforcing their forward line for Ruben Amorim, before finalizing a last-minute move to strengthen their goalkeeping options with the signing of the 23-year-old Belgian from Royal Antwerp.
The club ultimately opted for Lammens over Martinez, who has been labeled as ‘world-class’, despite engaging in discussions for both targets.
Lammens eventually made his first appearance for United in the recent match against Sunderland, earning widespread praise for his display that contributed to the win.
Speaking on the Talk of the Devils podcast, Mitten shared with his co-hosts that some individuals within the squad were in favor of Martinez joining, though the club chose to invest in the younger prospect, Lammens.
“He has been brought in to be Manchester United’s number one. I’m told that he’s training well, but I’m also told that it will take some time for him to get to that point.
“I’m not watching him training, I’m not making the decision. I love the idea of a 23-year-old being properly scouted and recommended and coming in, because the alternative was Emi Martinez.
“There were people in the Man Utd dressing room strongly pushing for Emi Martinez, people of his nationality, granted, but I like the idea of building a foundation for the future with younger players, ideally, Premier League proven, which isn’t always going to be possible.”
Lammens had to wait for his opportunity, with Amorim initially relying on Turkish international Altay Bayindir for fixtures against Manchester City, Chelsea, and Brentford.
Bayindir, however, struggled to inspire confidence among his defenders and supporters, prompting the switch to Lammens for the weekend clash.
During the game, Lammens delivered key saves, including efforts from Granit Xhaka and Chemsdine Talbi, and received cheers from the Old Trafford faithful each time he successfully dealt with aerial threats.
There is growing optimism that Lammens can build on this performance and cement his place as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper, especially with a crucial trip to Anfield to face reigning champions Liverpool looming after the international break.
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