Former Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has voiced his opinion that the team’s style of play has shifted towards being overly defensive under Jose Mourinho’s management.
Van Gaal, who led Old Trafford for two seasons and famously secured the FA Cup in 2016, was dismissed shortly after that victory due to the team’s failure to secure a top-four Premier League finish.
During his tenure, Van Gaal faced criticism for a cautious approach; however, he argues that Mourinho’s tactics haven’t brought much change in terms of excitement, despite winning the EFL Cup and Europa League in his first season.
Currently, Mourinho’s squad trails 11 points behind league leaders Manchester City, following a 2-1 loss in the intense Manchester derby.
“Reflecting on my time at United, given the circumstances, it was my best year ever,” Van Gaal shared with the Daily Mirror.
“We played a respectable brand of football, but it’s not the style that’s appreciated here in England.”
“Looking at United now, Mourinho’s approach is even more criticised for being boring, yet he hasn’t been held accountable as much.”
“Personally, I’d prefer to watch Manchester City play because they have a higher quality squad.”
“What United are showing now is defensive football. I always pushed for attacking play. During my time, opponents usually parked the bus because we played offensively.”
“Now, teams don’t sit back as much because Mourinho’s strategy is so defensive.”
(© TEAMtalk Media)
