Manchester United have "?officially announced they have sacked manager Louis van Gaal after two years in charge at Old Trafford.
"?The Dutchman took over in 2014 after the sacking of David Moyes, and guided the Red Devils to a place in the top four in his first season in charge. United have however missed out on the Champions League qualification places in 2015/16, and Van Gaal has been given his marching orders despite winning the FA Cup on Saturday.
A fifth placed finish in the Premier League this season contributed to the decision, while poor performance in Europe and a much-criticised style of play have also made life tough for Van Gaal in Manchester. Speculation over his position has continued for months - dating back to a seven-game run without winning over Christmas - but United have finally made the decision to relieve Van Gaal of his duties.
Jose Mourinho is due to hold talks with senior Manchester United officials on Tuesday: https://t.co/2yk5J99KO9 pic.twitter.com/X85XZpWLbj
Reports of Van Gaal's departure initially broke on Monday morning, with stories suggesting that the 64-year-old and his coaching staff - who have left the club too - were informed of the decision by executive vice chairman Ed Woodward at 8:45am.
Woodward said on the matter: "I would like to thank Louis and his staff for their excellent work in the past two years culminating in winning a record-equalling 12th FA Cup for the club (and securing him a title in four different countries). He has behaved with great professionalism and dignity throughout his time here.
"He leaves us with a legacy of having given several young players the confidence to show their ability on the highest stage. Everyone at the club wishes him all the best in the future."
United are expected to appoint former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho as his successor, with his agent Jorge Mendes due to fly to Manchester for talks on Tuesday."?
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