Ruben Amorim has confirmed Altay Bayindir will start against Manchester City this weekend, despite Senne Lammens’ recent £17m arrival from Royal Antwerp, as ESPN reports. This Bayindir Lammens derby decision article delves into the tactical choice, Lammens’ integration, and its implications, supported by the £17m deal details, Lammens’ arrival at United, and concerns over squad stability.
Amorim’s Choice and Tactical Considerations
Amorim chose to start Bayindir over Lammens, likely valuing experience for the Manchester derby. Even though Bayindir hasn’t kept clean sheets in his recent Premier League starts against Arsenal, Fulham and Burnley, these games do show he knows the league’s pressure. Amorim noted, “Altay is going to continue,” citing the “different league, different country, different ball” as factors, confirming Bayindir’s preparedness.
Lammens’ Arrival and Future Role
Lammens, 23, is moving to United on a five-year contract. He played for Antwerp, where he made 52 appearances and kept a clean sheet 12 times, as detailed in his transfer story. That £17 million transfer, initially viewed as a long-term play, is now under the microscope. Amorim recognizes Lammens’ “great potential,” but his inexperience and rookieness in England is an interruption on his derby debut.
Fans on already expressed that, Lammens needs some time, but Bayindir must hand off the ball now.
We're just 2 days away from the first Manchester Derby of the season. It could be the tale of 2 new keepers. With City also recruiting a new Number 1 in Donnaruma.
It is expected that Bayindir keeps his spot in between the sticks, having been the number 1 for the previous #MUFC… pic.twitter.com/7jBzWYJjgQ
— Benjamin Hunt (@JustAFootyFan_) September 12, 2025
Squad Dynamics and Broader Implications
This goalkeeper verdict transpires amidst concerns over Kobbie Mainoo’s potential exit, spotlighting United’s squad stability, balance and firmness challenges. With Onana’s loan to Trabzonspor, Bayindir’s performance is now even more critical in sorting out the goalkeeping situation. Amorim’s strategy seems to be about balancing what the team needs now with what’s planned for the future, which is really important given the high stakes of this derby.
Expectations and Fan Reactions
The derby, live on Sky Sports from 4pm Sunday, pitches Bayindir opposing a dominant City attack. United’s recent form, with injuries to Matheus Cunha, Mason Mount, and Diogo Dalot, adds stress and burden.
Fans debate took place by stating that, Bayindir has to step up, or Lammens might get his chance sooner. Professional experts like Nedum Onuoha analyzes, “This is a test for Bayindir, but Lammens’ arrival signals United’s long-term vision.”
Author’s Note
The Bayindir Lammens derby decision is big for Manchester United. It shows what Amorim values tactically and how Lammens is fitting in. With few concerns about the team yet lingers, it’ll be engaging and captivating to watch how this choice unfolds for United’s season. As someone watching without a stake in the game, it will be particularly enthusing in how they balance and maintain the experience with new talent, and it’s worth watching closely.