Manchester United Winners and Losers if Van Gaal Stays

Manchester United could end up seeing out Louis van Gaal’s contract, which could have huge impacts for several players.

At the end of a tumultuous season for Manchester United, the club will face a crucial decision: stay with Louis van Gaal or appoint a successor?

It seems a new report emerges every day speculating on the next manager, either suggesting Jose Mourinho will come to the club or Louis van Gaal will remain in charge. Both bring different experience to the equation, with their own style of play and management style. The executives can ill-afford to make another managerial mistake, else it would become increasingly difficult to repair the damages.

The decision to hire ‘the Special One’ – Mourinho’s questionable title given his sacking – or stay with Van Gaal has implications in all facets of Manchester United. Would the current support staff remain? How would supporters react to the move? What would the club’s transfer business be in the coming summer?

But, perhaps most importantly, the decision would have ramifications for the current squad. There are several players under Van Gaal who have struggled for playing time, while a change to Mourinho would have similar effect for others. Conversely, players have also been given opportunities under the current manager. It’s unclear whether they would be afforded the same chances under the Portuguese replacement.

With that in mind, here are the major winners and losers in the squad if Louis van Gaal remains in charge.

Next: Winner: Timothy Fosu-Mensah