Louis van Gaal to Critique David De Gea in 'Boring' Manchester United Meetings

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal admits he will be critical of goalkeeper David De Gea's performance against Liverpool, despite the players' concerns that his man management and training methods are having a negative affect on the dressing room.

The Spaniard made his first appearance of the season against Liverpool after signing a new contract and looked reasonably assured, conceding only from Christian Benteke's magnificent overhead kick. Nevertheless, according to Sky Sports, he told Saturday Night Football:

"

As a manager you are never satisfied. The fans are very satisfied, the fans are very pleased with David De Gea for example, but I have a criticism for him and I am sorry I have to say that.

And that's for all the players. I want to improve every individual, but because of that you also improve the team performance, which is what we are doing.

It means a lot of meetings and a lot of training sessions. I have heard the words 'boring' and 'too rigid', but it is like that.

"

The Spaniard was hardly at fault for allowing Benteke's unstoppable goal-of-the-season contender to fly in and made two smart saves to deny Jordon Ibe and Danny Ings. Further, according to Squawka, De Gea was successful with his only attempted punch and his two attempted claims.

Jon Super/Associated Press

However, what could be the source of Van Gaal's criticism was the 24-year-old's distribution, of which he had just a 57 per cent success rate—down from his impressive 69 per cent last season.

The 64-year-old is a self-confessed perfectionist, though, so his comments are firmly in keeping with his approach to the game.

That could be something of a concern for United players and supporters alike.

Per the Manchester Evening News' Stuart Mathieson, Wayne Rooney and Michael Carrick have already expressed their concern the dressing room was "flat," but Van Gaal nevertheless claims to have "a superb relationship" with his charges.

However, while United have shown even in victory they still have much room to improve, Van Gaal's criticism of players who were faultless for the most part could cause worrying rifts in future.

Ultimately, different players will naturally respond to different styles of man management. The Dutchman's approach may work for some, but as he seems inflexible with his methods, others may become disillusioned in time. That could spell serious trouble for the Red Devils.