Ed Woodward has recently come under criticism from Manchester United fans on social media for failure to land Pedro from Barcelona. Louis van Gaal is known to be forthright and honest in the media which can rustle the feathers and stir the pot. Many were curious to see if he would do the same with Manchester United’s executive vice-chairman.
In today’s press conference, Louis van Gaal stood by the Chief Executive with these words (full audio clip at the end):
“I have the idea that you want to separate Ed Woodward with me. Never. Never. Because from everyday I am updated by him and I trust him.”
Is Louis van Gaal right to stand by Ed Woodward? Some would say absolutely not.
With Manchester City strengthening their attack with the acquisition of Raheem Sterling and soon Kevin De Bruyne and Chelsea adding Pedro, one begins to wonder how Manchester United can keep up with the rest if Wayne Rooney happens to get injured.
Since the season has already started, it is more difficult to buy players, adding to fans’ unease as they feel adding a striker or creative attacking option is fundamental to Manchester United’s title chances.
From Manchester United’s preseason and first few matches, it seems defensive solidity won’t be as much of an issue as creating chances and scoring goals. Last season, Manchester United did not score more than 70. While a lot of goals aren’t necessarily required to win games, the ability to create a good amount of chances does increase the likelihood of scoring goals. A necessary facet to have if a team ever falls behind or needs to increase their goal difference.
If there’s one area Manchester United certainly needs to improve, the goals and chance creation department is certainly it. With the departures of Radamel Falcao and Robin van Persie, fans are struggling to see where the goals will come from this season. Along with the fact van Gaal has talked about signing a player with pace and creativity to help create more chances. Then of course, the David de Gea situation, adding further concern to how fans will judge Manchester United’s window if they haven’t already.
So why is Louis van Gaal standing by Ed Woodward when he looks set to lose one of his most key players? For the club’s image and most likely his own position, it’s in his best interest to. To do otherwise is to start a fire where there was not one already. If you talk to United fans, it seems there are several fires which need to be put out.
Amidst all the unrest, frustration and sense of despair Manchester United fans have experienced this summer, there are reasons to rejoice, reflect and remember what lays ahead. An excellent piece by @PaulGunning1 shows us what we have to look forward to. http://therepublikofmancunia.com/dont-let-the-transfer-window-get-in-the-way-of-the-football/
Audio below:
