New Delhi: Manchester United seems to be in no panic mode in getting rid of manager Louis van Gaal although they seem to closely monitor the Dutchman's situation closely.
18 months into the managerial role at Manchester United and Louis van Gaal finds himself no different from the period the club was under former boss David Moyes.
United's pedestrian play governed by toothless attack and lack of pace, saw the club register yet another winless performance on the road, as the team have managed to pick only three points from their last six games in the Premier League.
With shouts from certain sections of United fans and football pundits alike, that the Dutchman needs to go, the club isn't in any hurry just yet. But the time is ticking quickly and Gaal knows if the fortunes don't change, he might well be gone rather sooner than expected.
A coach needs time to build on something and have his say on the style of football played coupled with trust of board and players alike who needs to believe in the process. Gaal ticked off the minimal requirement of qualifying for Champions League last season, but despite some early promise this term, his boring style of play has been criticised immensely.
United are struggling to get goals, win games and most importantly creating chances. Already out of two competitions, Gaal finds his side slipping down the EPL table too.
United are certainly in a period of transition as Gaal is focusing on building a team to fight for honours in the future. But the players bought by him have looked ordinary despite millions being spent. Amongst many players he has brought in, only Anthony Martial and Matteo Darmian looks worth mentioning as promisingly good.
Van Gaal should be credited though in giving youngsters chances and trusting them, but with the side struggling they have been left to fend alone. United's team lacks balance, purpose, intensity and creativity. With no pace and a prosaic, pedestrian possession based play United's directness have taken a hit.
If Gaal is given the trust to turn things around and build for the future, United would have to risk the decision. On the other hand, is the Dutchman a right fit at the club? Will his philosophy work and see United dictate proceedings once again? These are questions the board needs to answer and it is a tough one.
United had sacked David Moyes earlier just seven months into his job in 2014 and the same cannot be said at the moment with Gaal. The club could be tempted to get in Jose Mourinho or also battle with Manchester City for Pep Guardiola at the end of the season. Gaal needs to get his players have their confidence back and start winning matches before its too late.
So after 18 months under his reign should United pull the trigger or be patient in seeing him run down this season or even his contract?
United face Swansea City on New Year's Day at home and it could give the manager a new start in changing the course of the season.
