By now, Louis Van Gaal must finally understand the extent of the challenge that lies before him. If he didn’t know before he took the Manchester United job, he knows now.
After all, he’s spent a huge amount of money, he’s embedded his coaching techniques into the club and he’s had a few months to settle in and yet he’s still not got his team to perform consistently.
The Red Devils demonstrated some good form at the start of December, but they’ve since lost their way a little bit. Even whilst results have gone Van Gaal’s way, I think it’s fair to say that his team hasn’t been performing to the best of its ability. I think the fans are well within their right to expect a bit more.
As Manchester United have been throwing money at their problems for the last couple of years, I don’t expect things will change during this particular iteration of the January transfer window. I expect that Van Gaal will be keen to loosen his purse strings once again.
It’s not like there isn’t good talent out there. There are plenty of players who could improve this Manchester United side.
Take Enzo Perez, the Argentine ace who caught the eye at the 2014 World Cup. The 28-year-old has 15 caps for his international side and he’s made 64 appearances for Benfica. Those who have kept track of his career would argue that he’s currently enjoying the form of his life.
He’s lightning quick, he’s got excellent technique and he can be effective in the final third. He’s not a naturally goal-scorer by any means, but he’s tricky and direct, so he can make things happen in the final third. As a winger, he’d be a step up on the likes of Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young.
Still, he won’t come cheap. According to The Express, there’s a £23m release clause written into his Benfica contract. That’s a lot of money for a player his age, but if Van Gaal wants to get his side back in the running this season, he may well want to roll the dice with this one.
What’s your take? Should Manchester United spend £23m on a 28-year-old?
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