Louis van Gaal has finally admitted that Manchester United have underachieved this season. The Red Devils find themselves two points behind city rivals Manchester City in fifth place, with one game remaining in the season. LVG and United are hoping that Swansea City can do them a favor by defeating the Etihad side. But Manchester United have a stern test themselves as they face AFC Bournemouth at home, having lost the reverse fixture 2-1 in December.
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Speaking ahead of the match in this season’s final press conference, Van Gaal promised that Manchester United will fight till the end despite Champions League qualification not being in their hands.
Van Gaal admitted that he was left frustrated by the way they let their lead slip in the defeat against West Ham in what was the final game to be played at Upton Park.
“We fight until the end. We are dependent on Manchester City, that’s the difference. That’s also frustrating when you had the chance two matches before the end to keep that advantage. We were 2-1 ahead with 15 minutes to play and then we gave it away, that’s frustrating. Now we are dependent but still it is possible,” the manager said.
Also Read: 5 reasons why Louis van Gaal must leave Manchester United
When asked what lessons can he learn from this uneven campaign, Van Gaal was quick to remind reporters that they can still qualify for the Champions League. He was of the opinion that their defensive solidity is good but the side have to do better while going forward, as the Old Trafford club have been uncharacteristically poor attacking wise.
The Dutch manager added, “I can say that we have to improve still. I don’t think we have to improve defensive organisation too much, now we have to score more in our attacking way. That is also what I have said before this season – we need creative, fast players in attack. We have to change that, and that is very important.”
He also said his side’s inability to kill off opposition teams is causing them lots of problems.
Manchester United have fallen down the pecking order in recent times and are finding it hard to attract Europe’s top players as Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Barcelona continue to acquire the best services.
Inability to secure a Champions League spot would see them fall even lower. But Van Gaal looked relaxed and said United will beat the three clubs in the summer market as the Dutchman looks to make quite a few changes to the squad.
The 64-year-old also revealed that he will remain, at least in his mind, at Manchester United next season.
“I am always evaluating and always adapting to the situation where we stand. And I have said I shall be here [then] – that is my opinion – so the board has to decide if it is like that. That is a different way of looking to the situation,” he said.
United in the FA Cup final, one of the few bright spots in what has been a disappointing campaign. But Van Gaal looked upbeat, “Of course you can say Manchester United need to be champions. Yes, I know the expectations are like that but I don’t think that is realistic. We are still in the race [for fourth]. You cannot say we are not. We can win the FA Cup. How many are still in the race? How many? It’s not so much.”
