Louis Van Gaal says he bought "overpriced" Anthony Martial for Manchester United's next manager

Van Gaal explains his decision on buying the unproven teenager

Manchester United manager Louis Van Gaal has admitted that the amount paid by the club for Anthony Martial was ‘ridiculous’, The Guardian reports. The marquee summer signing is believed to be of more benefit to the succeeding manager of the club due to his young age.

Former United player and club legend Ryan Giggs is expected to fill in the Dutchman’s shoes at the end of his term, but this has been no secret to the Old Trafford faithful. The Red Devils are on the process of rebuilding ever since the departure of their greatest manager Sir Alex Ferguson and so far his succeeding managers, David Moyes and Van Gaal has had an uphill task to keep United at the top level.

United have been on a spending spree for the past two seasons, but the most shocking decision of signing the unproven teenager from Monaco this summer raised eyebrows from many pundits and supporters.

And van Gaal believes that the fee of £36 million upfront, with the rest linked to performances, reflected the tendency of United being quoted £10 million more for players than other clubs. However, the Dutchman remains confident and stands by his decision to overpay for the 19-year-old, who is deemed to become successful in the coming years.

“I have not bought Martial for me, I have bought him for the next manager of Manchester United," van Gaal said, before giving a subtle nod to Ryan Giggs, who was also present at the event for executive United season ticket holders. ”

He also added, “I feel I am introducing the next manager of Manchester United.”

Former United players publicly criticize Van Gaal

Louis Van Gaal has been under pressure right from the time he took charge of England’s 20-time champions and rightly so, given the fact that the Dutchman is one of football's most decorated managers. It was always going to be a tough job for the former Netherlands boss who succeeded Moyes after the later had a torrid time as United's gaffer – failing to provide Champions League football for the supporters during his term.

A lot of criticisms have flown in regarding van Gaal's philosophy and inconsistency in his team's play. Shockingly, it's the former United players Gary Neville and Paul Scholes who have given him the stick.

“It makes me sick because they should know that it takes time,” as LVG hits out at former United players’ criticisms.

Van Gaal and his Red Army remain confident to seize the title away from Chelsea’s hands, but he has admitted that he would be satisfied with a top-three finish. United are set to take on Liverpool in Saturday’s derby at Old Trafford and the Dutch manager will be looking to prove his doubters wrong.