The debate continues on Van Gaal. Brilliant despot? Process Philosopher? Heretic dismantling United’s vibrant tradition of “attack, attack, attack”?
North Manchester’s ever blunt Paul Scholes, of course, fanned the recent flames, and the United Rant blog has produced various think pieces all with the recurring theme that currently United are Forever Dull or Dour. The latest speculates on the Dutchman’s legacy when he retires from Old Trafford, gives up his beloved nights at Wings and retires to Portugal.
Well I’m sticking to my constant theme. He’s doing a good if not great job, and others agree. United are in the top four; likely to go through to the next round of the Champions League; and have the signing of the season in 19 year old Anthony Martial who will win every Young Player of The Year Award this year, and many more awards in the future.
Van Gaal has tightened the defence; made Old Trafford a fortress again; and rebullt and re-energized the squad. Yes he’s had the money. So have Liverpool. Van Gaal was asked to stop a decline which potentially could have seen United slip to the Anfield outfit’s current predicament. A once dominant force struggling and stumbling to reassert itself. Every year falling further and further behind its rivals.
Yes he’s doing it with defence and organization. What are his options? Everyone agrees he hasn’t got the two or three world class players with the pace, power and energy needed to re-establish United as a dominant force both in the Premiere League and Champions League. Can he get them? Has he got anyone in the junior ranks? We’ll have to wait and see.
If Memphis/DePay was as advertised that would be a boost. He isn’t, and in my opinion never will be. (sorry to sound like a broken record on this). Personally I’ll take a top 3 finish, and as good a showing as possible in this year’s Champions League while Van Gaal tinkers with the current squad, promotes from within, and buys the best if he can make them available.
Tactics and style of play are determined by the personnel at a manager’s disposal. It’s a simple as that.
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4728 miles from the Stretford End 