Zlatan Ibrahimović has branded Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens “overrated” following his costly error in Belgium’s World Cup exit.
Lammens entered Belgium’s quarter-final against Spain after Thibaut Courtois suffered an injury during the second half.
The score was 1-1 when Rudi Garcia selected the United goalkeeper ahead of Chelsea youngster Mike Penders.
Lammens then spilled Pau Cubarsí’s long-range effort into the path of Mikel Merino. The Arsenal midfielder converted the rebound to give Spain a late 2-1 victory.
Ibrahimović placed much of the blame on Garcia’s substitution decision.
“I hold the national coach responsible for this defeat,” the former United striker said, according to Goal.
Ibrahimović questions Lammens’ ability
Ibrahimović questioned why Garcia chose Lammens instead of Penders before delivering a severe assessment of the 24-year-old.
“Lammens isn’t a good goalkeeper at this level,” he said. “He’s overrated. Penders is much better, and everyone can see it.”
The criticism appears particularly harsh after one difficult World Cup appearance.
Lammens enjoyed an impressive first season at Old Trafford and made 33 appearances in all competitions. He was also named the Premier League’s Transfer of the Season following his move from Royal Antwerp.
His mistake still proved decisive against Spain. Merino scored in the 88th minute after Lammens failed to hold Cubarsí’s strike, sending Belgium out at the quarter-final stage.
Michael Carrick must now help the goalkeeper recover before Manchester United’s new campaign begins.
Courtois offered Lammens support after the final whistle, while United are expected to stand by a player who performed consistently throughout last season.
One error should not erase that progress, although Ibrahimović’s comments will add further scrutiny when Lammens returns to Carrington.
