LOUIS VAN GAAL feels he has the backing of his Manchester United players but claims he would quit the club if the squad lost faith in his philosophy.
Rumours have emerged of unrest among some players at Old Trafford, with former Netherlands international Willem van Hanegem accusing his countryman of “mistreating” Ryan Giggs, Radamel Falcao and Angel Di Maria.
But Van Gaal believes he has the support of the dressing room, claiming the chemistry within his squad is right, with United clinging onto the fourth and final Champions League qualifying spot, but the 63-year-old admits that a premature exit from the club would be on the cards were things to change.
“When I think the chemistry between the players and the manager is not good enough anymore, then I go,” Van Gaal said ahead of Sunday’s showdown with Premier League rivals Tottenham.
It is not a question, I can go for myself also. I am in my first season here and I can still win the title, but that will probably go to Chelsea. What we have to do is continue in our process. But we have been in the top four longer than Arsenal this season. That is true.”
Van Gaal, who signed a three-year deal in July, added: “When I see this chemistry between myself and my players, then I don’t have any doubts.
“Of course, we have disappointing moments but we can survive and we have confidence to qualify for the Champions League.
“I remember when I went to AZ, a very minor club in Holland. In my first season we were second, in my second season we were third and in my third season we finished 11th.
“I said to my players that I would go away. But the players then came to my house to ask me to stay, and so did the board. So I said, ‘Okay, I will stay.’ And, in the fourth year, we were champions.”
