Louis van Gaal had seemingly seen it all after a long career in management but the Dutchman says Manchester United’s tour of the USA has left him spellbound.
United notched up five wins from five fixtures against top quality opponents – one victory on penalties – as they displayed a togetherness not seen for some time.
Van Gaal had voiced his concerns over United’s commercial activities but upon arriving back in England, the 62-year-old has been swayed.
“The way we have done this tour is a big surprise for me. I’m not used to that,” Van Gaal told the club’s website.
“It’s amazing the impact that we have in the United States. It is amazing that more than 350,000 fans [have watched us out here] because more than half I think were Manchester United fans.
“Unbelievable. They were all in red. Beautiful.”
It was not all rosy however as Van Gaal faces some tough decisions over who to retain in his squad ahead of the end of August, when the transfer window shuts.
Ahead of that is United’s Premier League opener against Swansea City on August 16.
“I wish that we start a little bit later… we will have to train in the season more than ever to make sure we are prepared.”
“We have to be honest,” he said on squad changes.
“We have to give advice to the players now at this moment and not at the end of August. Then we can’t change anymore and they don’t have a choice.
“Of course it’s difficult to say something after two weeks but I think you have to say something.”
Main image courtesy of Hayters Teamwork via YouTube, with thanks.
