New Delhi: 18 months into the managerial role at Manchester United and Louis van Gaal finds himself no different from the period the club was under former boss David Moyes.
United's pedestrian play governed by toothless attack and lack of pace, saw the club register its third successive loss on the road, as the team have managed to pick only two points from their last five games in the Premier League.
Boxing Day's festive cheer failed to find any smile in the United camp as they succumbed to a poor 0-2 loss against Stoke City. Louis van Gaal looked like a man with no clear idea on how to end this dismal run.
Gaal came in with a philosophy in summer 2014 and since then nobody has found what it actually means. After a hefty GBP 250 m already spent on transfers, United still lack finesse upfront and very few players that have come in under him have justified themselves.
Gaal's philosophical attributes have taken a big hit and the Dutchman still hasn't found any balance in the squad as United lack depth n certain areas. Team selection has been bizarre at times and neither the players have helped him either this season that started off positively to say at least.
Gaal who helped United finish fourth last term in the EPL, finds the side slipping down the order every week. After 18 months United haven't progressed from where they left off under Moyes despite a squad overhaul.
With all the money spent, United who are in a period of transition were at least expected to get better this term but have failed miserably. They were relegated from the Champions League Group Stage and also bowed out of the League Cup.
Time is running out for the celebrated name Gaal as United's pain continues to grow. Losses against Bournemoth, Norwich and now Stoke have seen Gaal's side with lack of precision, unity and hunger. Old Trafford has become a quiet place just like it was under Moyes and United's dominance under Sir Alex Ferguson now seems a long long time ago.
Gaal was trusted with the role to build a team slowly and get better with time but United's play has baffled everybody. Possession based play with lack of creativity and attack has cost United as it seems they lack a clear game-plan.
With Jose Mourinho available at the market, United might be tempted to let Gaal go after the match against Chelsea on Monday if they lose yet again.
Gaal's possession based football with nothing to offer in attack is better not to dwell upon anymore.
