Louis van Gaal: Manchester United boss takes journalist to task over Jose Mourinho reports

The Independent on Sunday revealed this weekend that Jose Mourinho, the former Chelsea manager, is ‘confident’ about his chances of becoming the new manager at Old Trafford

Louis van Gaal speaks to the media at Stamford Bridge (Getty)

Louis van Gaal bristled at the suggestion Manchester United were actively looking for his successor – and let one journalist know the extent of his anger.

The Independent on Sunday revealed this weekend that Jose Mourinho, the former Chelsea boss, is ‘confident’ about his chances of becoming the new manager at Old Trafford.

But Van Gaal maintains there is no such link and promised to ‘repeat myself every week’ until the stories over his future subside. The Red Devils are six points adrift of fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur and a further 12 short of leaders Leicester City.

Jesse Lingard scored an excellent corkscrewed goal to put United ahead at Stamford Bridge before Diego Costa snatched a draw with an added-time equaliser despite an improved display by Van Gaal’s men.

Speaking after the match, the Dutchman asked a reporter: “You've spoken with [chief executive] Ed Woodward?

“OK. So you didn't speak to Ed Woodward, not with the Glazers [owners] and you are inventing a story. And then I have to answer this question. I don't answer this question. And I shall repeat myself every week.”

The exchange in full...

Journalist: Do you think that is important, while the club is trying to replace you, the fact you are putting in performances which say you might have a value to the club?

Louis van Gaal: You have spoken with Ed Woodward?

J: Well the club aren’t denying it.

LVG: Why do they have to deny? I don’t interfere neither. So why do the club have to deny that when you are creating stories?

J: I don’t know if you know what I’m writing.

LVG: Okay, Okay.. So you [haven't] spoken with Ed Woodward? Not with the Glazers? And you are inventing a story and I have to answer that question. I don’t answer this question and I shall repeat myself every week. Now I have to say that you [a reporter] are getting the sack tomorrow. What is your name? Then I can announce your name also. Look at your wife. Maybe you have children. Or a nephew or something like that.