The Red Devils have endured a difficult season thus far and sit five points behind fourth-placed Tottenham, leading to criticism of the Dutchman, who is now under intense pressure

Manchester United’s players are not adhering to Louis van Gaal’s philosophy, resulting in their dramatic dip in form, according to former Middlesbrough midfielder Gaizka Mendieta. 

Van Gaal has come under intense pressure in recent days and admitted that he has failed United’s supporters following the club’s insipid 1-0 defeat to Southampton on Saturday. 

United are now five points behind fourth-placed Tottenham in the Premier League, with 15 games of the season remaining, and Mendieta believes Van Gaal has thus far failed to transmit his preferred style of play to his players. 

"That is hard to tell from a distance,” Mendieta told Goal when asked why Van Gaal has floundered in recent months.

“But it is obvious, that something is not working and the team does not play 'Van Gaal football'. His idea on how United should play is not showing.