Van Gaal arrives at Carrington despite Mourinho rumours

Louis van Gaal arrived at Manchester United's training ground on Monday morning amid intense and enduring scrutiny about his future.

After a disappointing campaign in terms of style and substance at Old Trafford, a change appears imminent as Jose Mourinho prepares for a return to management.

Before the celebrations had even subsided at Wembley on Saturday, United's FA Cup win was being overshadowed by fresh reports that Van Gaal was to be replaced by the former Chelsea boss in the coming days.

United have steadfastly refused to comment on speculation regarding their managerial situation, while the Portuguese kept his counsel when asked about the job ahead of David Haye's fight on Saturday evening.

Van Gaal stood firm when asked about his position in the post-match press conference at Wembley, but fuelled speculation on Sunday by telling a reporter outside the team hotel that "it's over".

The brevity of the comment meant it was not immediately clear whether that meant the former Holland manager had been told his time at United was at an end, although his situation could soon become clearer.

Van Gaal arrived at United's Aon Training Complex at around 8.45am on Monday, his Mercedes sweeping into the Carrington training ground.

Two years ago predecessor David Moyes attended a morning meeting with executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward at the club's training complex and a statement confirming the Scot's sacking followed shortly afterwards, just 10 months into a six-year deal to replace Sir Alex Ferguson.

Van Gaal still has a season remaining on his three-year contract, while Mourinho has been out of work since paying for Chelsea's abysmal title defence with his job in December.

The Portuguese has repeatedly spoken of his plans to return to work this summer, and reviving United's fortunes would surely be a mouth-watering proposition for the self-styled 'Special One'.

United, a club synonymous with a swashbuckling, attacking style, managed a paltry 49 league goals - their lowest return for 26 years - and missed out on Champions League qualification to neighbours Manchester City on goal difference.