Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes believes that Louis van Gaal has to change next season otherwise the club will fall further behind.
The Dutch tactician has one year remaining on his current contract, and despite speculation of a change being made this summer, it appears a real possibility that he will see out his deal.
United remain in the hunt for a top-four finish this season and will contest the FA Cup final later this month, but while Van Gaal has previously insisted that expectations are too high at the club, Scholes believes that his are too low and that change is necessary next season.
Scholes insists Louis van Gaal must change if he is to remain in charge of @ManUtd. #FletchAndSav https://t.co/gJedtfgo5e
— Fletch And Sav (@FletchAndSav) May 7, 2016
Paul Scholes questions whether Louis van Gaal understands the size and expectations of @ManUtd… #FletchAndSavhttps://t.co/77vMVf4cnY
— Fletch And Sav (@FletchAndSav) May 7, 2016
Scholes was also critical of Van Gaal’s selections prior to their 1-0 win over Norwich City, and although United secured all three points, it wasn’t the most convincing or entertaining of performances.
While it is no secret that a number of former United players are disappointed with how the culture, mentality and style of play has changed at Old Trafford since they left, it is clear through results and an assessment of United’s season thus far that they are falling below where they should be.
Aside from the fact that Scholes is right when it comes to expectations at the club, the threat posed by their rivals who are all set to improve next season should be becoming a bigger concern for United in terms of the hierarchy, coaching staff, players and supporters.
From Tottenham and Leicester City coming back strong next year, to Jurgen Klopp’s on-going influence at Liverpool as well as Antonio Conte’s arrival at Chelsea.
Arsenal will have their say while Manchester City will welcome Pep Guardiola, and based on United’s lack of progress under Van Gaal, it’s a worrying time for the club.
There have been positive aspects to their campaign, but it can’t be enough for supporters to honestly, and confidently, say that they expect the Red Devils to be competing for the Premier League title next season.