Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal launched a staunch defence of executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward after the club reportedly missed out on Pedro. The manager insisted that there will never be a rift between him and Woodward at Old Trafford.
Chelsea FC secured the signature of FC Barcelona winger Pedro Rodriguez earlier this week. It was reported by the Telegraph that Manchester United wanted to secure the signature of the Spanish winger, but, the club failed to agree a fee with FC Barcelona.
Pedro later confirmed the Telegraphs version of story by saying to Chelsea FC official website that it was Jose Mourinho and Cesc Fabregas who convinced him to sign for the club.
Van Gaal defends Woodward
A section of Manchester United fan base criticized Woodward, who was reportedly in Barcelona as per the report by Telegraph, on Monday, to try and negotiate a deal.
Van Gaal is adamant Woodward should not be criticized after United failed to bring in another player, and was quoted saying by ESPN FC: “I don’t think they have to doubt Ed Woodward because he has proven for many years that he is the right person in the right spot.”
Van Gaal denies rift
Van Gaal admitted that Pedro fit the profile of the player the club were seeking, last week. However, he insisted that his words were twisted and refused to explain why the club either opted not to bring in Pedro or were unable to persuade him to join. He also accused outsiders of trying to create a rift between him and Ed Woodward but claimed they will not succeed.
“I have the idea that you want to separate Ed Woodward from me,” he said. “Never. Never. Every day I am updated by him and I trust him.”
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“I think if we want Pedro, it was not any problem so because there was a clause in his contract so it was the most easy transfer,” he added.
“You can write what you want but we cannot say what we want. I have the responsibility of protecting the interests of the club and my players and I cannot say too much.”
“I admitted that Pedro fits in my profile but I cannot deny that because he is fast and creative. I answered that question because I think it is obvious. Then you put it in another perspective and [say] he is coming to Manchester United. I have never said that. You have to ask Pedro.
“People have to know that what is written in the papers is not true. You cannot know it. Only the players know, the club know and that is it. Also Barcelona protect their interest. I have read that Barcelona does not want to let him go. You have to ask Barcelona how it can happen then.”