Manchester United fans were left furious after Louis van Gaal accused supporters of expecting too much of his side.
Van Gaal’s comments came after Man United’s final Premier League game of the season, a 3-1 win over Bournemouth, meant that the Dutchman’s side finished the campaign in fifth spot, missing out on Champions League football for next term.
United fans were left incensed by the manager’s remarks:
Van Gaal said expectations are too high, but at the awards dinner last year said we were going to win the league this season, so… ?
— Republik of Mancunia (@R_o_M) May 17, 2016
Words I never want to hear again:
Transition.
Philosophy.
Expectations too high.
— Nicole (@UnitedSheStands) May 17, 2016
'Expectations too high?' We've just finished 5th ffs!
— Barney @Red News (@barneyrednews) May 17, 2016
If Van Gaal thinks ‘our expectations are too high’ he needs to leave straight after the cup final. Are Bayern & Barca’s too high? Muppet.
— Rob B. (@_Rob_B) May 17, 2016
Expectations to high, welcome to Manchester United Louis. We expect to challenge for major honours every season 5th isn't acceptable.
— Notorious D.O.U.G (@Doug_MUFC) May 17, 2016
LVG is pathetic! Expectations are too high??? Do you know this is @ManUtd?! Fighting for the league every season is a must!!
— Aashil Ramjee (@ThisIs_AashilR) May 17, 2016
We are Manchester United, expectations should be high
— ian lindley (@ibblyobbly) May 17, 2016
Expectations are too high, you're out of your depth mate @lvg
— Nik (@Viva_United7) May 17, 2016
Forfeit the title chase by December? Check. Drop out of both the Champions League and Europa League in embarrassing fashion? Check. Endorse an insipid and uninspiring style of football? Check. Miss out on Champions League football for next year? Check.
With the above in mind, claiming that United fans expect too much is laughable. Following a steady rise to fourth last season, van Gaal’s side have sunk below all expectations in the following campaign. The groundwork was all there for a memorable season: a truly settled team for the first time in the post-Fergie era; a lack of potent rivals; a blend of experience and youth; a manager with European experience.
It was the ideal platform for a title challenge and a positive run in Europe. But nothing of the sort ever materialised. This side, so full of potential, brimming with talent, has fallen way below expectations.
