The Dutchman was angered by speculation over his future and decided to leave after just two minutes of his obligatory meeting with the media accussing
Under-fire Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal decided to cut his press conference short on Wednesday, accusing the media of lacking respect for him before exiting after less than five minutes.
The Dutchman’s future has been the source of mounting speculation over recent days in light of United’s three-game losing streak and six-match spell without a win.
Jose Mourinho’s sacking at Chelsea has also seemingly piled on the pressure, with many predicting the Portuguese could take over at Old Trafford imminently.
And Van Gaal responded with a stern address at his obligatory pre-match press conference for the Boxing Day visit to Stoke City, asking reporters to apologise to him before calmly leaving the room.
“Has anybody in this room not a feeling to apologise to me? Nobody has that feeling? That’s what I am wondering,” said the 64-year-old after being asked an opening question regarding speculation over his future.
“I think I was already sacked, I have read I have been sacked and my colleague was here already.
“What do you think happens with my wife, or with my kids, or with my grandchildren, or with the fans of Manchester United, or my friends? What do you think? They have called me a lot of times, and also Arsene Wenger is saying something about it.
“Do you think that I want to talk with the media now? I am here only because of the Premier League rule… I have to talk with you.”
When asked whether speculation was inevitable given United’s poor run, he added: “I don’t think that you can do that. You have to stick by the facts and when I get calls off Alex Ferguson, and David Gill, and Ed Woodward because you are creating something which is not good, which is not fact…
“Now I have to answer questions? I don’t think I want to do it. I only say now I am focused on Stoke City, I help my players.
“I wish you a Merry Christmas and also maybe a Happy New Year when I see you. Enjoy the wine and a mince pie. Goodbye.”
It is understood that word has reached Van Gaal that United’s legal team were working late into the night on Sunday, leaving the manager unsure of his position at the club.
He now takes his side to Stoke on Saturday looking for only a fourth win in 14 games, and United then host Chelsea at Old Trafford two days later.
The Red Devils currently sit fifth in the Premier League table, nine points behind leaders Leicester City.
