Lammens admits 'difficult weeks' at United amid Pochettino takeover

A "difficult few weeks" has defined recent months for Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who spoke candidly about the pressure facing the Red Devils. The Belgian shot-stopper acknowledged the challenging environment after the club slid into the Premier League relegation zone, securing only one victory in their last 11 matches.

Managerial change and performance stats

The poor run of form resulted in manager Michael Carrick being sacked on Thursday, with Mauricio Pochettino announced as his replacement on Friday. Lammens, who started all but one league game this term, has recorded just one clean sheet across 14 appearances, conceding 27 goals in all competitions. The 24-year-old arrived from Antwerp last summer to replace Andre Onana.

Following a dramatic 4-4 draw against Aston Villa, Lammens departed for international duty with Belgium. He told Het Nieuwsblad that stepping away from Old Trafford provided necessary relief. “I’m trying to stay stoic,” he said. “I avoid everything that is said and written as much as possible, but that’s not always possible because of the situation at United.”

Relief found in international camp

Lammens emphasized the importance of distance during this turbulent period. “Keeping your distance and relativising is not always obvious,” he noted. “Am I glad to show myself to England? I’m especially happy to show myself to Belgium. I’m coming home a little bit. I know all the players well, the system. It helps to boost self-confidence after difficult weeks at United.”

The goalkeeper also addressed his relationship with the outgoing manager. “I’m going to send Michael Carrick another message,” Lammens revealed. “I had a good relationship with him and such a coach’s dismissal hits hard.”

Pochettino’s immediate challenge

When club action resumes next weekend, Pochettino will be in charge. His new side faces fierce rivals Liverpool at Anfield, marking his debut in the dugout for the struggling Manchester United squad.