Even I’m bored by Manchester United, admits Van Gaal
Manchester United’s Louis van Gaal. AP FILE PHOTO
Louis van Gaal admits there have been times this season when even he has been left feeling bored and angry by Manchester United’s lackluster displays.
United ended an eight-match winless run by defeating Swansea nine days ago and then followed that victory up with a narrow success in the FA Cup against third tier Sheffield United.
But neither result was enough to ease the pressure on United boss Van Gaal because of the dull and uninspiring performances of his team.
READ: Bloodied Van Gaal pursues Man United upturn
Paul Scholes branded United’s style of play boring earlier this season and following Saturday’s 1-0 victory in the FA Cup, the former Old Trafford great claimed both Van Gaal and his players even looked bored during the third round tie.
Van Gaal, already forced to insist he wouldn’t resign due to the criticism of his methods from disgruntled fans earlier this season, will come under renewed fire if United fail to win at struggling Newcastle in the Premier League on Tuesday.
And ahead of that fixture, the 64-year-old finally conceded some of the football on display at Old Trafford this season has been dull.
READ: Man United stunned in League Cup by 2nd-tier Middlesbrough
“There are matches that I have enjoyed,” Van Gaal told reporters on Monday.
“And there are also matches where I’m very bored or angry because we are not disorganizing our opponent’s defense, but that is football.”
Despite that admission, the Dutchman still slammed suggestions that his primary aim is to stifle the opposition rather than attack.
“Do you know that,” he snapped at reporters. “I am not concerned (about defending more than attacking).
“At this moment we have a lack of creativity and you can see that but they have done it (played well in the past) so they can do it.”
Asked if he needed to show more passion on the touchline in the style of legendary United boss Alex Ferguson, Van Gaal was adamant he would remain true to his own style.
“I’m not Sir Alex, as you know,” said Van Gaal, who has rarely come to the touchline to speak to his players during his spell at the club.
“Everybody is different and I don’t believe in yelling from the sidelines. I believe in communication during the week, during the preparation and I believe in my players who have to perform.
“It’s very difficult because of the noise.
“A lot of managers are (yelling from the sidelines) but I doubt if they have real influence.”
