Rumours have been rife in the English media about Manchester United’s managerial appointment, with many reports claiming that the club are close to naming Jose Mourinho as their new replacement for current manager Louis van Gaal.
However, before we go into the details about this news, let’s recall that Mourinho’s Inter Milan had defeated none other than Van Gaal’s Bayern Munich in the 2010 Champions League final, on this very day, six years back.
#OnThisDay in 2010, Jose Mourinho won the #UCL with Inter against a Bayern side managed by Louis van Gaal… pic.twitter.com/5YCHzhmIUQ
— Bleacher Report UK (@br_uk) May 22, 2016
Interestingly, Van Gaal sent more rumours flying after revealing to a Sky Sports journalist that, “It’s over”.
Wow, looking like LVG has just confirmed his departure! https://t.co/dQQ8ZhnuXb
— 90min (@90min_Football) May 22, 2016
“It’s over.” – Louis van Gaal after leaving Manchester United’s team hotel. (Source: SkySports)
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) May 22, 2016
It is well known that Van Gaal was not the most liked character at Old Trafford, with many of their fans calling for the axe. Here are some of the best reactions from the club’s fans after the “It’s over” news broke.
Manchester United fans *patiently* awaiting news on Louis van Gaal’s future today… pic.twitter.com/tpnyUodmTG
— Bleacher Report UK (@br_uk) May 22, 2016
tired of the #VanGaal – #Mourinho news already… #MUFC please come clear!!
— Mandla (@mandlatshuma) May 22, 2016
Was never a fan of his football and results were too up and down but I’m thankful for the first trophy post Fergie. Goodbye Louis Van Gaal
— steven flynn (@stevenvflynn) May 22, 2016
In my opinion, Van Gaal should earn another chance in Manchester if he brings star players #MUFC
— Belal (@belal_amin98) May 22, 2016
Honestly, I prefer Van Gaal to stay rather than being dismissed. He’s still building the team.
— M Danial Hakim (@danhakimm) May 22, 2016
@ChrisHuxley88 it’s the way football fans work. Now van gaal’s leaving look at how sad everyone is
— The(Red)Devil (@Mempherrera) May 22, 2016
However, when approached about Van Gaal’s comments, Manchester United completely denied that Van Gaal was being sacked as the manager of the club and instead clarified that the Dutchman was implying that the season is over.
#mufc claim that Van Gaal’s “It’s over” comment is in relation the season and not his reign [neil custis]
— utdreport (@utdreport) May 22, 2016
@ncustisTheSun why are they saying this and not admitting ? can it be that they are going to keep van gaal still ? whats the reason ? thks
— Christian Bonello (@bonello1993) May 22, 2016
This indeed is a confusing time for Manchester United fans.