Louis van Gaal: Game against Chelsea could be decisive in Dutchman's fortunes

New Delhi: Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal's fortunes could be decided after the game against Chelsea in a crucial Premier League encounter on Monday's late kick-off.

With the festive fixtures in EPL have started thick and thin, Louis van Gaal will hope his side are able to get up from the rot in form and get the better of Chelsea who haven't lost in their last two games.

Chelsea sacked Jose Mourinho after a disastrous start to the campaign and is said to be waiting in the wings for the managerial post at United if the club decide to depart with the Dutchman.

Reports suggest that if United lose to Chelsea at Old Trafford, then the club could decide to sack Gaal before New Year. This game is of huge significance for the former Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager.

Given that both these giants have struggled this season, the match is expected to be intense and close.

United have gone seven matches without a victory across all competitions and also faced three successive defeats in the EPL against Bournemoth, Norwich and Stoke City. United have picked only two points in their last five matches as confidence has taken a major hit in the camp.

The Boxing Day loss to Stoke on Saturday put immense pressure on Gaal who stated that he has the option to quit United after a disastrous spell in this present scenario. Gaal also added that he feels he has the support of players and the board alike. Senior players have batted for Gaal but their performance against Stoke was as bad after the 1-2 loss against Norwich.

Gaal's prosaic, pedestrian and sideways possession play has faced criticism from all corners as United are currently playing dull football under the manager. The players have failed to score from opportunities created and there is a lack of intensity that has plagued them.

18 months into the managerial role at Manchester United and Louis van Gaal finds himself no different from the dismal period the club had under former boss David Moyes.

Monday night will be highly essential for Gaal and his troops as the players need to step up against Chelsea which can save their manager from facing the cull.