​Rewritten: On 30 August, Manchester United begin their season with a home match, and the scene will be set long before the whistle. At approximately 15:40 BST, Senne Lammens and the rest of United’s goalkeeping group will emerge to stretch and warm up. Lammens will receive a huge welcome from the home supporters, with the crowd’s appreciation following him throughout the warm-up, as the players depart the pitch, when they reappear for the pre-kickoff moments, and then continuing once the match kicks off.
There’s a familiar thread for many United fans who feel a mixed sentiment toward the national team, rooted in how their players have sometimes been treated after international duty. The sharpest memory remains David Beckham’s red card against Argentina in 1998, a moment that sparked intense backlash, including an effigy of Beckham displayed in a pub in South Norwood. Wayne Rooney faced furiously negative coverage after his red card in the 2006 European Championship. Twelve years later, the Spanish press criticized David de Gea for his World Cup performances, illustrating how international duty can cast a harsh spotlight on players.
There is sympathy for Lammens in the wake of Friday night’s events, especially since he arrived at the World Cup quarter-final for Belgium under pressure after Thibaut Courtois’ injury. Yet at 24, he must shoulder the memory of that crucial mistake that cost Belgium a place in the tournament. On 30 August, United’s supporters will offer concrete proof that, despite whatever happened in the United States, they have not forgotten how formidable he was last season. They will stand firmly behind him, expressing belief in his ability to contribute to the team’s continued success. This day will underscore their unwavering support as he steers United with confidence from the back.