Louis van Gaal job 'is not secure' at Manchester United

Old Trafford manager recognises pressure is on after huge outlay on players

Louis van Gaal with Bastian Schweinsteiger (GETTY IMAGES)

Louis van Gaal has admitted that his job is not secure at Manchester United.

The Dutchman has spent £75m this summer on Morgan Schneiderlin, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Memphis Depay and Matteo Darmian and more arrivals are expected at the club.

A central defender remains a high priority, with interest in Sergio Ramos ongoing and reports that Nicolas Otamendi could be set to arrive. A new striker has also become a necessity following the departures of Robin van Persie and Radamel Falcao. Edinson Cavani and Robert Lewandowski have been mooted as potential options.

Plus, the assertion from Van Gaal that Victor Valdes will be sold means that if David De Gea departs the club, a new goalkeeper will be required.

Having secured the minimum requirement of returning the club to the Champions League last season, the Old Trafford hierarchy will expect more in the upcoming campaign. Van Gaal recognises that the pressure is on.

“Never is it secure in top sport - even my position is not secure, as you know,” said the Dutchman during United's pre-season tour of the United States.

However, Van Gaal is not the only one who must prove himself.

“But also the players, the players have to fight," he said.

“Schneiderlin has to fight with Schweinsteiger, Michael Carrick and Daley Blind.

“These are the players who can play in the centre of midfield.

“Darmian has to fight with Antonio Valencia for the right-back role.

“He knows that, but Valencia knows that also.

“Carrick knows it also, because at the end of the season I have told him.”

Manchester United take on Club America this weekend before pre-season matches against San Jose Earthquakes, Barcelona and PSG before beginning their Premier League campaign against Tottenham.