Rene Meulensteen, the former Manchester United coach, has voiced his opinion that the club missed a trick by not trying to sign Unai Simon from Athletic Bilbao during the summer transfer window. He further admitted that he is not entirely convinced that Senne Lammens has what it takes to eventually join the ranks of the greatest goalkeepers in United's storied history.
Lammens joined Manchester United from Antwerp for around £18 million just a year ago and enjoyed a promising debut season. However, the new campaign has started on a shaky note for Michael Carrick's side, conceding six goals in their first three Premier League matches.
After a 2-2 draw with Everton, Meulensteen assessed the prospects of the 24-year-old Belgian:
Don’t get me wrong: he had a really good season, making outstanding saves and significantly helping United. Would I place him in the same bracket as Peter Schmeichel, Edwin van der Sar, or David de Gea? No. Can he reach their level? I’m not sure.
Meulensteen was particularly impressed by Unai Simon, who shone for Spain in their World Cup victory:
I would have chosen Unai Simon from Athletic. He left a strong impression on me. Throughout the World Cup, he read the game well, managed the defence expertly, and made all the necessary saves.
In that case, you're getting a World Cup champion with a real presence in goal. I think Lammens is currently lacking that. If he's to reach that level, he will need to deliver consistently strong performances.
The Dutchman also noted that Manchester United still faces challenges in strengthening their defence. The focus during the summer window was primarily on midfield, with the signings of Youri Tielemans, Andre Santos, and Carlos Baleba, but Meulensteen doubts the current squad is enough to compete at the latter stages of the Champions League:
The next transfer window may need to focus on the defence. Has enough already been done? Manchester United should be aiming for the Premier League title given the club's size and history. Will this team be enough to compete in the quarter-finals and semi-finals of the Champions League? I have my doubts.
