Manchester United have had a terrible season so far — first they were knocked out of the Champions League, and now after their weekend defeat against Norwich City, they are out of the top 4 in the Premier League.
The blame for Manchester United’s poor performances has landed squarely on the head of Dutch manager Louis van Gaal, who has come under heavy criticism from all corners and has infuriated the fans with his brand of football and lack of results. It is now believed that he has a deadline to prove himself at Old Trafford, otherwise he’ll be out of a job.
“Louis van Gaal may have only two games to save his job as Manchester United manager. The Dutchman knows he must avoid defeat by Stoke City on Boxing Day and Chelsea two days later or he could be sacked, especially with Jos Mourinho now available as an instant replacement,” reported The Guardian.
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Van Gaal had earlier stated that if he lost the faith of the squad he would walk, but it seems his players still believe in him. a Yes a I have seen the reaction of the players to me afterwardsa , he said. But with the recent drought of goals, now coupled with a run of disappointing results, the decision could well be taken out of his hands and the Red Devil’s next two games against Stoke City and Chelsea will prove crucial to his future.
Who’s Next?
The circumstance that has added further pressure to Louis Van Gaal’s situation, is the sacking of Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho. Mourinho is a known trophy winner and had won the Premier League just last season. It is well known that he is extremely willing to take on the manager’s job at Manchester United and the fans apparently want him there as well, with chants of his name being heard at Old Trafford after the Norwich game.
Another heavyweight contender is Spaniard Pep Guardiola, but Manchester United will have to wait till the end of the season if they want to get him to the club, as he is currently managing Bayern Munich. Guardiola has said that he would leave the German giants after this season and every top European club is interested in him, with Manchester United being one of them.