Spaniard admits he was aware Van Gaal’s time was up
Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera says he was not surprised that Louis Van Gaal was sacked, following their FA Cup final victory over Crystal Palace.
The Dutchman was dismissed, after months of speculation about his future, to be replaced by Mourinho – who he worked with during his time at Barcelona – and the Spain international admits it was sad to see him go.
Herrera began his United career at the same time as Van Gaal, going on to make over 70 appearances for the Red Devils, and will now have to prove to the former Chelsea boss that he is worthy of a place in the Manchester United starting XI.
“It wasn’t a comfortable time, but we are professionals, and so we didn’t allow it to distract us,” said Herrera.
“I must say that the coach remained strong throughout. He never showed signs of surrender and, in the end, we won the FA Cup.
“Van Gaal is an honest guy and has always put Manchester United above all else.”
The Dutchman did manage to bow out with the FA Cup in his hands, after a near three-season spell without a trophy, following Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure from Old Trafford.
But despite the criticism for Van Gaal in the media, the Spain international believes the 64-year-old did a good job at the club, and the foundations are there for Mourinho to build upon.
“Nothing surprises you in football today.” Herrera added. “United have to fight for every title and, when they lose that fight, this is one of the outcomes.
“In many ways I think he has done a good job.
“I’m grateful to him because he signed me and so gave me the opportunity to play more than 70 games, in two years, at arguably the world’s largest club.”
