Football is a cruel world.
Footballers are crueller.
Adnan Januzaj was a walking example of the need for a thick skin in this business as he was snubbed from being brought on as a late substitute at Carrow Road.
The Belgian warmed up, he seemed ready, he was sent back to the bench as van Gaal brought on Timothy Fosu-Mensah instead during Manchester United's 1-0 win at Norwich.
If that wasn't embarrassing enough, Januzaj had to go back to sit down next to Anthony Martial who couldn't help but see the funny side of the situation.
https://twitter.com/utdreport/status/728942220087312385
The 21-year-old's last competitive appearance was back at the end of February when he was brought on for 10 minutes in the 3-2 win over Arsenal.
He nearly got a run out in United's third last league game. Nearly. Not so.
They still have a trip to West Ham before their final game at home to Bournemouth. Those games represent Januzaj's last chance of making an appearance in the FA Cup final.
With Man City set to play Arsenal next, Manchester United's Champions League dreams are still alive.
Dreams are what will keep poor Januzaj going in these times.
