Van Gaal Warns That Boring Meetings Are Here To Stay

Van Gaal Warns That Boring Meetings Are Here To Stay

Manager Louis van Gaal has told his Manchester United players to prepare for more “boring” meetings because he thinks they are effective.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the Dutchman expressed how his tactics and set-plays have paid off during games, despite how tedious they may seem.

“I have to say the meetings about the set-plays and the sessions about the set-plays have paid off,” he said.


Manchester United’s first goal against Liverpool on Saturday was courtesy of a beautifully worked set-piece, something that came straight off the training ground.

“So I am very happy because the first goal was the deciding goal. We have a lot of meetings, you know.”

However, the manager admitted he wasn’t entirely pleased with the performance.

“As a manager you are never satisfied,” he added.

“The fans are very satisfied, the fans are very pleased with David de Gea for example, but I have a criticism for him and I am sorry I have to say that.”

“And that’s for all the players. I want to improve every individual, but because of that you also improve the team performance, which is what we are doing.”

“It means a lot of meetings and a lot of training sessions. I have heard the words ‘boring’ and ‘too rigid’, but it is like that.”

“I think that every player has to be very happy with his profession because he makes from his hobby his living. Then you have to show your professional attitude.”

United midfielder Michael Carrick has become the latest player to admit he had heard nothing about Anthony Martial before his deadline day move to United:

“I have to be totally honest, I didn’t know an awful lot, no, like many, but I do now,” Carrick said.

“He is off the mark now. He has announced himself, everyone has seen it on the big stage. It’s a good start for him. I am sure his confidence will be sky high after that.”

“It’s a good way to settle him and if that has raised expectation then so be it. That is part of the game.”

[Quotes via Sky Sports]