Sir Alex Ferguson Reportedly Has Concerns About Louis van Gaal's Style of Play

Manchester United’s legendary former manager Sir Alex Ferguson reportedly has reservations about the style of play being adopted by Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford. 

That’s according to Neil Ashton of the Daily Mail, who has written a piece outlining some of the main criticisms of the Dutchman this campaign, including the ponderous brand of football that has annoyed the supporters. He claims Ferguson is another who has watched on in frustration, especially given the enterprising manner in which his team approached matches:

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When Ferguson ruled the roost, their gung-ho approach was the reason United won so many matches in the final few minutes, giving credence to the term ‘Fergie time’ whenever they snatched one of their famous late winners.

Their former manager is known to have some misgivings about the style of play under Van Gaal.

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In addition to his claims about Ferguson, Ashton also suggests Van Gaal is “ruling by fear” at United and has “beaten the sense of adventure” from the team. Subsequently, it’s suggested young players such as Memphis Depay and Anthony Martial are inhibited when taking to the field.

Ferguson, on the other hand, fielded teams that were daring in their approach to the game and often had young players who were emboldened by the Scotsman’s revered motivational skills. As a result, the fans always seemed to enjoy watching the team play.

Manchester United writer OffsideLiam commented recently on how things seem to have gone full circle under Van Gaal:

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This #mufc just isn't fun to watch. Even if they win the BPL playing like this, although great achievement, it's still not enjoyable.

— Liam (@OffsideLiam) November 25, 2015"

This is a different era, though. United sought to implement some degree of continuity after Ferguson’s retirement by deciding to appoint his preferred successor, David Moyes. However, the Red Devils discarded of him, moved for Van Gaal and as such, are currently in the middle of a period of transition.

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Indeed, the signings made under Van Gaal, such as Luke Shaw, Martial and Depay all point towards a team which is building for the future. Dutch football expert Elko Born thinks that with those factors considered, this spell was always going to be a difficult one for the team:

Still, some more attacking endeavour would be encouraging. Throughout his career, Van Gaal’s sides have always gone forward with incision and intensity, making this current lull a little peculiar. The work the Dutchman has done on the defensive side of the team, which is admittedly outstanding, also provides a foundation from which offensive players can thrive.

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It’s a balance that is definitely skewed at the moment. As Ian Ladyman of the Daily Mail noted in the aftermath of Wednesday’s 0-0 draw with PSV Eindhoven, despite the fan angst, things aren’t all bad for the Red Devils:

For United supporters, it’ll be tough to let go of the Ferguson years given the manner in which they dominated the top flight with a thrilling style of football. But they are gone, the club are going in a new direction and some understanding is required in order for things to get better again in the future. Van Gaal, for all his flaws, is laying some strong groundwork.

The Red Devils remain outsiders for the Premier League title this year, but if they can continue hardening their resolve throughout the course of the campaign, next season, with the likes of Depay and Martial matured, they’ll have a much better chance. Ferguson, like a lot of other United supporters, will have to wait a little longer before they see this side truly flourish.