Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens has discussed the influence Real Madrid‘s Thibaut Courtois has had on his development.
Lammens moved to England in the summer of 2025, joining United from Royal Antwerp. He is working to adapt to the Premier League‘s pace and intensity.
The 23-year-old gained recognition at Royal Antwerp, which led Manchester United to seek him as part of their goalkeeping enhancements.
United secured Lammens on deadline day in September for an initial fee of £18.1 million, with potential add-ons in the contract.
Senne Lammens on Thibaut Courtois’ significance
Photo by Joris Verwijst/BSR Agency/Getty Images
Lammens is aiming for a regular place in Belgium’s national team and made his senior debut during the 2025 World Cup qualifier against Liechtenstein.
Courtois is considered one of the best goalkeepers in the world, having had a successful career in both England and Spain.
The 33-year-old began at Genk before playing for Chelsea, Atletico Madrid, and Real Madrid.
In an interview with Manchester United’s official website, Lammens stated that Courtois exemplifies Belgium’s growing reputation for producing skilled goalkeepers.
Lammens expressed his desire to achieve similar heights in his own career: “I hope I can get my career going and maybe reach that level one day,” he said.
Senne Lammens on Belgium’s influence in football
Previously with Club Brugge, Lammens noted that Belgium’s contribution to goalkeeping is starting to resemble the Netherlands’ history in this field.
“Looking at our national teams, I believe the quality of goalkeepers in these countries is quite high,” he said.
“It’s no surprise that many goalkeepers from Belgium and the Netherlands are now playing in the Premier League.”
Lammens added, “It’s encouraging that young goalkeepers are being developed well and that it is showing results.”
In his first season with United, Lammens has made 21 appearances across all competitions and has achieved four clean sheets in the league thus far.