Thibaut Courtois has offered an unusual piece of advice to Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens ahead of his daunting Anfield test against Premier League champions Liverpool. With Anfield remaining one of the most intimidating venues in world football, the 23-year-old faces a true baptism of fire as Ruben Amorim's struggling side face Arne Slot's free-scoring Reds.
Lammens and Man Utd to face Liverpool at Anfield
Manchester United’s young goalkeeper Lammens is set for his biggest challenge yet as Amorim’s side travel to Anfield to face champions Liverpool on Sunday. The 23-year-old, who joined United from Royal Antwerp for £18.2 million this summer, impressed with a clean sheet on his debut in a 2-0 win over Sunderland before the international break. Having been called up by Belgium alongside Thibaut Courtois and Matz Sels, he now returns to club duty with expectations high.
However, Liverpool have lost just three of their last 83 Premier League home games, making Anfield one of the most hostile environments in the world for visiting goalkeepers. For Lammens, who has only one full top-flight season under his belt, this fixture represents both a challenge and an opportunity to prove he belongs at United’s elite level. Amorim is expected to persist with the Belgian ahead of Altay Bayindir, whose inconsistent form has raised questions in recent weeks.
The trip to Merseyside also comes at a critical juncture in United’s season, with Amorim’s project still taking shape. A strong performance from Lammens would not only strengthen his case to become United’s long-term No.1 but also help stabilise a back line still finding rhythm. Courtois believes that Lammens could impress at United and offered him some 'advice' for the Liverpool clash.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportCourtois sends 'advice' to Lammens
Courtois, who has earned 107 caps for Belgium and won two Champions League titles with Real Madrid, offered light-hearted but telling advice to his compatriot. “It’s a hard stadium,” he told Belgian media. “Maybe I should tell him to clap the home fans when he arrives at the Kop!”
While the comment was made in jest, Courtois acknowledged just how difficult a test Anfield presents for any visiting goalkeeper. “His first game was a flavour of what United will get,” he said. “He’s a tall guy, he is not afraid to come on crosses, and he’s a kid with personality. I’m sure he can do a good job. He has a tough game this weekend, so I hope if he plays, it will go well for him. All the best to him.”
Courtois also reflected on his own experience at the famous stadium, where he will return next month for Real Madrid’s Champions League group stage clash. “I will go there myself in a few weeks. It’s always a tough game there, and I guess Liverpool also have to bounce back after losing a few games.” His insight underscores both the unique pressure that comes with facing the Reds on home turf.
Getty Images SportLammens' unconventional move to Man Utd
Lammens’ journey to this point has been rapid and unconventional. Standing at 6ft 4in, the Belgian was signed as part of Amorim’s long-term vision to modernise United’s goalkeeping setup, favouring ball-playing stoppers capable of initiating attacks. He spent only one full season as a starter in Belgium before making the leap to Old Trafford, a move that raised eyebrows but has quickly begun to look inspired.
In training, Lammens has been mentored by United’s goalkeeping coaches and inspired by role models such as Courtois, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and Manuel Neuer. He has earned praise for his calmness under pressure and his ability to play confidently off both feet, particularly his left. Former United players, however, have questioned whether he can handle the expectations that come with following in the footsteps of legends like Peter Schmeichel, Edwin van der Sar, and David de Gea.
Man Utd face wounded Liverpool at Anfield
Manchester United will look to build on their recent momentum as they face Slot’s Liverpool, who are desperate to respond after a run of three defeats across all competitions. Liverpool’s firepower, boasting 185 goals at Anfield in the Premier League since the start of the 2023/24 season, will provide a stern test. Amorim will rely on his backline and Lammens’ reflexes to keep the champions at bay in what promises to be an electric atmosphere. For the young Belgian, the clash represents more than just a league match — it’s a statement opportunity.
