There were plenty of eyebrow raised when Manchester United’s squad for the pre-season tour was announced and Victor Valdes was left out of it.
Without any explanation, it was presumed by fans and journalists alike that Valdes’ absence was simply down to being left out by Louis van Gaal.
If that were the case, the writing would almost certainly be on the wall for Valdes because it would certainly indicate Van Gaal did not see him as a potential replacement for David de Gea should he join Real Madrid.
However, in a somewhat confusing twist, Valdes has posted a photo on Twitter of him training on his own back at United and he insists he is ‘working hard’ to play at Old Trafford next season.
https://twitter.com/1victorvaldes/status/620911741547974657
One interesting point to make is that there is bruising on Valdes’ thumb and strapping on his wrist. The Spanish goalkeeper may well have picked up an injury, unbeknownst to everybody, which could explain why Van Gaal left him out.
We should find out later this week during Van Gaal’s press conference as to whether Valdes was left behind due to injury but with speculation continuing to surround his future, there are no guarantees he’ll still be at the club next year.