Angel Di Maria has delivered a blunt verdict on his time under Louis van Gaal at Manchester United.
The Argentine winger’s spell at Old Trafford remains one of the most debated chapters of his career, particularly given the expectations surrounding his arrival.
Now, years later, his reflections on the relationship with the former Manchester United coach are once again drawing attention. His latest comments have quickly gone viral across social media.
Angel Di Maria criticises Louis van Gaal’s approach at Manchester United
Speaking in comments shared by Netflix Sports, Angel Di Maria said: “We were winning, I was making assists and scoring, but he didn’t mention that. He only ever wanted to talk about the mistakes.”
Di Maria added: “Identifying and learning from your mistakes is critical, of course, but given my position as a forward, I’m bound to make mistakes because I’m always trying.
“My job is always to go for an assist or take a shot on goal.”
Di Maria’s frustration appears rooted in what he perceived as a disproportionate focus on errors rather than output.
During his lone season in England, he contributed goals and assists but struggled to consistently settle in a system that many felt restricted his attacking freedom.
Angel Di Maria opens up on Manchester United pressure
Di Maria also revealed the wider strain he felt at the club, stating: “I had sold more jerseys than anyone else upon my arrival to the Premier League.”
“So, I was finding myself under a lot of pressure. Really, that year was s___,” he concluded,
The comment underlines the commercial and sporting expectations placed on him following his high-profile move from Real Madrid. With a significant transfer fee and immediate fan attention, Di Maria’s adaptation period was always going to be scrutinised.
His departure after just one season reinforced the perception that the partnership between player and manager never fully aligned.
While Louis van Gaal maintained his structured tactical philosophy, Di Maria has now made clear that he felt constrained rather than empowered. Years on, the candid reflection adds fresh fuel to one of Manchester United’s most discussed transfer stories.
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