Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal stood firm as rumours that he was about to be sacked and replaced by Jose Mourinho intensified within moments of his side winning the FA Cup.
Reports have claimed the Dutchman will leave United in the coming days with former Chelsea manager Mourinho taking over.
The BBC last night reported that the deal with the 53-year-old Portuguese was agreed in principle before United’s cup final win.
It is rumoured he will pen a three-year-deal and could be confirmed as United boss by Tuesday.
Van Gaal has had to contend with similar speculation for much of the season and he remained defiant as the media put questions to him after his side beat Crystal Palace 2-1 at Wembley.
The 64-year-old placed the trophy on the desk in front of him and highlighted his success before hitting out at the media for prematurely writing about his demise.
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Van Gaal said: “I show you the cup and I don’t discuss it (my future) with my friends of the media, who already sacked me for six months. Which manager can do what I have done?”
It was then put to Van Gaal that the club have not put a stop to such rumours.
Van Gaal responded by asking his inquisitor, “You have followed the board?” before attempts were made by his press officer to change the subject to the game.
Asked if the victory could be the perfect send-off, Van Gaal said: “I don’t want to talk about leaving the club.”
Nobody else from United has commented on the matter.
When asked by a reporter from BT Sport if Van Gaal had needed to win the cup, he said: “That’s not so important for me. I want to win things, titles. I have won everywhere I have worked so I don’t have to prove myself.
“When they want to use my knowledge, my management, I shall continue. We have proved today that we have a title, and that (the last title) was a long time ago.
“Also, in a period of Sir Alex Ferguson, he does not win every title.’’
Asked if he will be seen next season, Van Gaal added: “I hope to see you.”
For Mourinho’s part, he was across London watching David Haye box at the O2 Arena, but when asked about the story he declined to comment.
