Van Gaal Reacts To Manchester Derby

Louis van Gaal was proud of his players following a controlled performance in Sunday’s 0-0 draw with Manchester City, but the United manager was disappointed his side could not secure the win.

Speaking to MUTV after the final whistle at Old Trafford, this is what the boss had to say…

Van Gaal on United’s performance in the derby: “I am very proud of my players because I think we played 90 minutes of a tough game. Both sides played a very tactical game. It was very compact and organised, that is how Manchester City played against us. They adapted the line-up against us.

"Against Sevilla in the Champions League, they played with two strikers and now they played with one, with one more player in midfield, so it was a tough game. We created more chances but we didn’t finish them and that is the disappointment because you must win these kinds of games for the fans. It is the derby and when you are so focused and so concentrated like we were today then, yeah, you deserve to win. But sometimes you don’t get what you deserve.”

Does United’s defence earn credit for shutting out City? “Yes, but that is the defensive organisation. That is not only the defence. The defence starts with Wayne Rooney. Our defensive organisation is normally rather good, it was only against Arsenal when it was not good. But that was a very bad start from a lot of players – and Arsenal were very good.”

Are United serious title contenders? “When you see this game, I think the fans were also very proud of the players because, when I go back to the dressing room, they were applauding us. Also, the fans have seen the way we have played and it was a very controlled game from Manchester United. They are also disappointed, like me, because you have to win against these kind of teams, also for the fans, but the way we have played gives hope for the future."