The goalkeeping department of Manchester United has undergone a significant transformation, following the finalization of two key transfers.
The loan transfer of Andre Onana to Trabzonspor has been officially confirmed, while the Red Devils secured the signing of Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp on the deadline day.
The club had no choice but to part ways with the Cameroonian goalkeeper, despite having initially guaranteed him the No. 1 position, due to his persistent errors during matches and off-field controversies.
After returning from pre-season with an injury, he still had the audacity to request a new contract, fully aware that his performances since joining the club have been far from satisfactory.
Onana out, Lammens in
His mistakes did not leave a positive impression on his teammates, with several of them advocating for his replacement and for backup goalkeeper Tom Heaton to receive playing time.
Interestingly, Ruben Amorim has chosen to give reserve keeper Altay Bayindir three consecutive starts in the Premier League this season, despite the Turk making errors in each of those matches.
Lammens is reported to be the new No.1, but the head coach may refrain from placing him in a challenging situation right away, particularly with the Manchester derby approaching.
Bayindir continues to be an unreliable option, and now, journalist Andy Mitten has indicated on the Talk of the Devils podcast that the coaching staff at Carrington believe Heaton is currently the best goalkeeper at the club.
Heaton is United’s best keeper
“I am told by people I respect at the club that Tom Heaton is the best goalkeeper at the club. You also have some side issues. Vitek’s doing really well, but he’s on loan at Bristol City.
“So, watch him for the future. I hope we get a standout new number one for Manchester United because I’m really curious as to how the situation will develop.”
He signed a contract extension this summer, and has been made a part of the new-look leadership group within the squad, but Amorim is yet to hand him a single minute since taking over the reins.
It is pretty damning if the 39-year-old is indeed better than both Bayindir and Onana, yet Amorim never turned to him. It is also concerning if the England international is outshining the new recruit on the training pitch.
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