Jose Mourinho Looms Large Over Louis van Gaal's Manchester United
Jose Mourinho has been linked with Manchester United as the successor to Louis van Gaal in the manager's post. Under the latter, the English giant's performance has been rather off colour.
Being a Manchester United fan requires one to have both grit and a thick skin in the times of Louis van Gaal. There are performances, where the manager's possession-based 'philosophy' reminds fans of his tactical genius, while others put the most ardent Reds to sleep. (Chelsea F.C. Ride Diego Costa's Equaliser to Hold Manchester United F.C.)
In a recent clash, last week, van Gaal faced an old adversary, in Dutch manager Guus Hiddink. A long time ago, the duo manned opposing dugouts in the El Clasico. But rather than the Dutchmen, this fixture belonged to another manager, one who was shown the door at Chelsea and reportedly is the favourite to succeed Louis van Gaal at Manchester United.
In perhaps the most bizarre season of recent years, where Leicester City are top of the league and the bookmakers' favourites to be champions, United fans have every right to question Louis van Gaal's methods. The football isn't pretty but is Mourinho the answer? The United fans seem polarised.
The Chelsea fans, however, have far more clarity. "They made a mistake. Should've never sacked Jose," said one Blues fan outside Stamford Bridge.
Watching Man United play away is a remarkable experience, one that makes you question everything you read in the papers or on Twitter about the club. The atmosphere at Old Trafford may have dimmed of late but the travelling fans have made no bones about their unequivocal support of the club all season.
Finally, the match ended ended 1-1 following Jesse Lingard's goal for the Red Devils and Diego Costa's equaliser for the Blues.
All was not lost, however, as a seemingly galvanised Manchester United performed for their manager, while the United fans primed themselves to welcome his replacement.
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