Statistics have reveal that Manchester United under Louis van Gaal has totally deviated from its high pressing, attacking and beautiful football, into a more defensive and cautious side.
The Dutchman’s tactics has been heavily criticised by fans and followers of the game who have expressed their fears that the former Barcelona coach might bury the club’s attacking philosophy.
United legend, Paul Scholes, added his voice to the club’s unwanted defensive approach saying he would not have enjoyed playing in this current United team.
“I actually think the team is brilliantly coached to defend. I think the hardest thing to do is to coach scoring goals, creativity and to have players who are off the cuff,” Scholes told BBC Radio.
“It’s a team you wouldn’t want to play against and it’s probably a team you wouldn’t want to play in either.
“There’s a lack of risk and creativity. It seems he doesn’t want players to beat men and score goals – it’s not a team I would have enjoyed playing.”
United were held to a goalless draw at Crystal Palace over the weekend, and sit in fourth place in the Premier League. It was United’s third successive 0-0 draw in all competitions.
After the stalemate at Selhurst Park, van Gaal admitted to his side’s poor attacking system, saying “There’s a big concern but I already said that after the match against Middlesbrough.
“(In that match) we created many chances but did not finish.
“(Today) we didn’t create so many chances so it’s more difficult. When you don’t keep the ball you can’t create chances.”
Also, damning statistic has emerged that Arsenal pair, Santi Cazorla and Mesut Ozil, have created 81 chances in the Premier League this season – the same amount as the whole United squad.
In total, only Sunderland (74) and Aston Villa (80) have created fewer chances in England’s top flight this term.
United have scored 15 goals in the Premier League this season, 11 fewer than league leaders Manchester City.
Their next match is a crucial Champions League clash with CSKA Moscow at Old Trafford on Tuesday.
