The MUFC boss confirmed some early team news yesterday. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
Ruben Amorim has been urged to rethink his decision to start Altay Bayindir in goal for Sunday’s Manchester derby.
The Manchester United boss confirmed on Friday afternoon that Bayindir would retain his place between the sticks when the Reds travel to the Etihad this weekend, despite the recent arrival of Senne Lammens.
Bayindir to get the nod over new boy Lammens
Bayindir has started each of United’s opening three Premier League fixtures, conceding four goals in total. He has yet to keep a clean sheet, with his performances leaving much to be desired – hence the board approving a move for Lammens.
However, the new signing will have to wait to make his maiden outing – perhaps until the visit of Chelsea next Saturday. From Amorim’s point of view, Lammens has only had a couple of days spent with his new teammates at Carrington after they returned from international duty, so throwing him in at the deep end against Manchester City could set him off on the wrong foot if things don’t go to plan.
Pundit explains how City can use Bayindir inclusion to their advantage
Craig Burley maintains the belief that Bayindir will be easily targeted and exploited for his weaknesses in matchweek four, though.
He was left ‘dumbfounded’ by Amorim’s admission during his pre-match press conference, and subsequently told ESPN: “With Bayindir, every set-piece I’m putting [Erling] Haaland and every centre-half on him and just swinging it under the crossbar for fun.
“Hell, if Man City have got someone who takes long throws, I’m throwing it in Rory Delap style. I’m just piling it into the box because he’s absolutely hopeless at coming out and dealing with aerial balls – he’s shown that.”
There is also no Andre Onana to utilise for the rest of 2025/2026 following his move to Trabzonspor on Thursday. The Cameroonian’s dismal showing at Blundell Park, which saw United draw 2-2 with League Two outfit Grimsby Town before losing on penalties, was the final straw for Amorim.
