Van Gaal avoids talk of future after United wins rescheduled finale
Embattled Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal neglected to acknowledge his future with the club after his side closed out a disappointing Premier League campaign with a 3-1 win over Bournemouth.
In a post-match address to the remaining fans at Old Trafford, Van Gaal expressed his gratitude for their "unconditional support." He was jeered by some sections of the stadium, but later applauded for his words of praise.
WATCH: Louis van Gaal addresses the crowd at Old Trafford. Report here: https://t.co/IwawREi4k9 #SSNHQ https://t.co/wenHj19hHd
— Sky Sports News HQ (@SkySportsNewsHQ) May 17, 2016
(Courtesy: Sky Sports)
Absent from his speech was any indication of whether he would return as manager next season, the final year of his contract with United.
"On behalf of my players, staff, and myself, thank you for your unconditional support. Wherever we have played, however things have gone on the field, you never let us down," said the Dutchman. "We hope to bring the FA Cup home to you."
Last year, Van Gaal was much more certain with his language:
Van Gaal to fans on pitch in 2015: "You were amazing, especially for me. I want to thank you for that and next year we see each other again"
— Rob Harris (@RobHarris) May 17, 2016
Reports persist that Jose Mourinho will take over United in the summer, although the club hasn't confirmed one way or the other.
Van Gaal was equally coy during a post-match interview with BBC Sport, only saying: "I have a contract of three years and I want to fulfill that. The transition period is not over yet. I am still the manager."
United finished the campaign in fifth place, losing out on a Champions League place to cross-town rival Manchester City by virtue of goal difference.