Old Trafford boss Louis van Gaal keen to dispel myths of Manchester United’s attacking past
Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has denounced the suggestion that the Old Trafford club was a constant bastion of attacking football prior to his arrival as they bid to avoid an unwelcome record against CSKA Moscow tonight.
United have recorded three successive goalless draws, which includes a 325-minute goal-drought dating back to their 1-1 Champions League draw in the Russian capital last month.
The last time United went four matches without scoring was in 1992, which prompted Sir Alex Ferguson to sign Eric Cantona, although Van Gaal was keen to protect his tenure against accusations of a lack of ambition.
“I have seen periods and tendencies in Manchester United, just like in other clubs, but it was not always the big Theatre of Dreams,” he said. “I am sorry to say that, but it is logical.
“Now we are making hopefully history. It takes time and I have said that before, but I cannot repeat myself, otherwise it shall be ‘Van Gaal asks for time again’. Until now, there has always been progress.
“I can remember you were saying defending is our problem and I said no, defensive organisation starts with the attackers. Now we are the best defenders of the Premier League and you are saying we cannot attack. No, it is not true, it is only a moment in the process.”
United are second in Champions League Group B, level on points with tonight’s opponents CSKA Moscow but two adrift of leaders Wolfsburg.