Senne Lammens Shines in Training but Gets Benched: The Decision Dividing United Fans!

Manchester United is gearing up for one of the most anticipated fixtures of the Premier League season—the first Manchester derby of the 2025/26 campaign.

Scheduled for Sunday afternoon, the rivalry against Manchester City promises drama, intensity, and high stakes, as fans brace themselves for a spectacle that transcends football.

However, United enters this clash with a heavy cloud hanging over their preparations.

It has been officially confirmed that three key players—Matheus Cunha, Mason Mount, and Donny van de Beek—will miss the derby due to injuries.

Their absence is a massive blow to manager Ruben Amorim, who has been working tirelessly to rebuild United’s identity and competitive edge.

Matheus Cunha, despite not yet scoring for his new club, has quickly become a vital component in United’s attacking strategy.

His pace, creativity, and ability to unsettle defenders have made him a standout performer in the opening three fixtures.

Losing Cunha ahead of a game of this magnitude has left fans deeply concerned about United’s ability to penetrate City’s formidable defense.

Mason Mount, known for his midfield dynamism, and Donny van de Beek, valued for his versatility, further compound United’s woes, leaving Amorim with limited options to adjust his tactics.

In the lead-up to the derby, United held their final training session earlier today, and it wasn’t without its share of talking points.

One standout moment was the performance of new goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who showcased his shot-stopping prowess during high-intensity shooting drills.

Tested by Bruno Fernandes and Joshua Zirkzee, Lammens pulled off a series of jaw-dropping saves that left onlookers buzzing with excitement.

Fans who managed to catch glimpses of the session took to social media to heap praise on the Belgian keeper, with many suggesting he already appears more reliable than former number one Andre Onana.

Onana’s inconsistency last season was a sore spot for United supporters, and Lammens’ arrival has sparked hopes of a fresh start in goal.

But despite the growing calls to start Lammens in the derby, Ruben Amorim has made his stance crystal clear.

The Portuguese manager confirmed that Alai Bayindir would retain his spot as the starting goalkeeper for the clash against Manchester City.

While acknowledging Lammens’ immense potential, Amorim emphasized that the young keeper is still adapting to life in England.

From adjusting to the Premier League’s physicality to understanding United’s tactical system and even coping with the unpredictable English weather, Amorim believes it would be premature to thrust Lammens into a game of this magnitude.

Amorim’s cautious approach has sparked debates among fans and pundits alike.

Some argue that Lammens’ impressive training performances warrant an immediate starting role, while others appreciate the manager’s patience and focus on long-term development.

Regardless, the decision adds another layer of intrigue to what is already shaping up to be a fascinating encounter.

The Manchester derby is more than just a football match—it’s a battle for pride, momentum, and bragging rights.

For United, it’s an opportunity to prove they are serious contenders this season despite the injury setbacks.

For City, it’s a chance to assert their dominance and remind everyone why they are considered one of the most dangerous teams in Europe.

The buildup to this game has been electrifying, with fans passionately debating lineups, tactics, and potential outcomes.

Will Ruben Amorim’s tactical discipline and United’s hunger for redemption be enough to overcome the absence of key players?

Or will Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City exploit United’s vulnerabilities and deliver yet another masterclass?

As the countdown to Sunday afternoon continues, one thing is certain—the world will be watching.

The Etihad Stadium will be the stage for 90 minutes of pure drama, emotion, and intensity.

Whether it’s a last-minute winner, a controversial decision, or a moment of individual brilliance, the Manchester derby has a knack for producing unforgettable moments.

For United, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

A victory would not only boost morale but also send a message to the rest of the league that they mean business this season.

For City, it’s about maintaining their dominance and showing why they remain the team to beat.

As fans eagerly await kickoff, the tension is palpable.

The absence of key players like Cunha, Mount, and van de Beek looms large, but United’s squad will be determined to rise to the occasion.

The performance of players like Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, and new signing Joshua Zirkzee will be crucial in deciding the outcome.

Meanwhile, City will look to their star-studded lineup, including Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne, to deliver the goods.

The tactical battle between Amorim and Guardiola adds another layer of complexity to the game.

Both managers are known for their meticulous planning and ability to adapt, making this clash a fascinating chess match.

As the whistle blows on Sunday afternoon, all eyes will be on Manchester.

The first derby of the 2025/26 season promises to deliver everything fans love about football—passion, rivalry, and unforgettable drama.

Whether it’s a triumph for United or another statement victory for City, one thing is certain: the Manchester derby never disappoints.