The Red Devils short-term ambitions are a win against the Baggies, but their long-term aspirations are a trophy and Champions League qualification.
Under snowy skies at the Aon Training Complex, Manchester United continued their preparation for Sunday’s Premier league clash with West Bromwich Albion.
The Mancunians have been in scorching form of late, scoring 12 goals in their last four matches – all victories – against Shrewsbury, Midtjylland, Arsenal, and Watford. As it would seem at present, Louis van Gaal has, miraculously, righted the sinking ship.
Much of the recent success can be attributed to the impressive performances from young United players, including Marcus Rashford, Guillermo Varela, and Timothy Fosu-Mensah. But going forward, van Gaal is expecting most of his senior squad will be fully fit come the end of March. The trio of Marouane Fellaini, Phil Jones, and Antonio Valencia are expected to return in the near future, while Bastian Schweinsteiger will be available later.
Despite the injury filled lineup, the manager is hopeful of a victory when Manchester United travel to the Hawthorns to face the Baggies. In his pre-match presser, per ManUtd.com, van Gaal asserted:
"“We have to beat West Bromwich Albion and that will not be easy. Last year we played there and drew 1-1 I believe, so it is not an easy opponent, and at home we also lost against them. But we won [at home to West Brom] this season and we hope to also win on Sunday.”"
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With the recent losses for other Premier League contenders, Sunday’s match against West Brom will be crucial for United to further maintain or narrow the margin to the top four.
The League Title may be beyond reach, barring a dramatic collapse atop the table, but the Red Devils are more than capable of finishing in the top two or three if they can continue their recent success. The Dutch manager is hoping his personal belief of success will carry over to his squad, saying:
"“When you see that we close the gap [on the top four] a little bit then your belief shall raise. I am talking to my players and saying that they need to believe in that. I believe in that, but they need to believe in it [as well].”"
But a high finish in the domestic league is only one route of qualification for the Champions League next season, with Europa League success another opportunity.
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After drastically reducing expectations for the club, van Gaal has addressed Manchester United’s objectives for the remainder of the season, all of which are attainable:
"“It is still our aim [to finish in the top four]. Our aim is also to win a trophy – that would be fantastic for Manchester United and the fans. Of course, Manchester United has not won the Europa League but also the [last] FA Cup is many years ago so that would be fantastic also.”"
With a squad at nearly full health for the remainder of the season, van Gaal will have no excuse of failing to hit his targets. Winning the FA Cup will be challenging but, under their current manager, United have an impressive record against the other top clubs in England.
The Europa League presents a more difficult task, as several European giants will be waiting in the next round should the Red Devils progress past Liverpool. But if their Premier League form dips, the continental competition will be the last hope of salvation.
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Things are certainly headed in the right direction for Manchester United, but the season’s success will hinge on continued improvement rather than the subsequent regression that has become characteristic of the squad this campaign.