Van Gaal did not offer to resign

United slumped to a 1-0 loss to Southampton at Old Trafford on 23 January, thereby increasing pressure on current boss Louis van Gaal.

Van Gaal returned to the Netherlands to celebrate his daughter’s birthday following Saturday’s 1-0 home defeat to Southampton, with the players given the day off from training on Monday.

And The Guardian claims that he attempted to leave his job in the aftermath of the defeat, only to be persuaded by Ed Woodward, United’s executive vice-chairman, to consult with his family before rushing into a decision.

However, it is believed that the Welshman wants a permanent role and substantial funds to spend in order to shape his own team.

Reports in the Manchester Evening News on Tuesday also suggested his position as United manager would not come under review until the summer.

With United now five points off the top four, out of the Champions League and having only won only three of their last 13 matches in all competitions, Van Gaal said later he could understand fans’ frustration.

Another goalless first half means it has now been eight hours and 26 minutes since United last scored a goal in the opening 45 minutes at Old Trafford.

Woodward is said to remain firmly behind Van Gaal remaining in charge at United until the end of this season, when the 64-year-old will nearly certainly bring forward his retirement plans by a year.

Next up for United is a trip to face Championship side Derby in the FA Cup fourth round on Friday (kick-off 19:55 GMT).

Woodward is the man exclusively responsible for Van Gaal’s future, and is thought to be keen to avoid the mid-season turmoil that a managerial change would bring. “They have, or they had, great expectations of me, and I can not fulfil them, so I am very frustrated”.

There have been reports that there is a split in the club’s board over who should succeed van Gaal.