Van Gaal: I'm dreaming of a derby win
Louis van Gaal is dreaming of recording his first Manchester derby win this weekend. Dutchman Van Gaal lost in his first meeting with Manchester City last November when Sergio Aguero scored the only goal in a 1-0 victory for the Blues.
That was Manchester United's fourth successive loss to their neighbours, and Van Gaal is determined to avoid another reverse on Sunday when Manuel Pellegrini's men come to Old Trafford. "I dream of it, every player shall dream of the victory," the United boss said in a press conference at Carrington.
Bragging rights are not the only thing at stake this weekend. Victory would strengthen United's grip on third place as they would then be four points clear of their 'noisy neighbours'.
A third-placed finish would guarantee direct entry into the UEFA Champions League and that is what Van Gaal is aiming for. "You want to win because it is a big step in the table also," he said.
"When you win, third place is then reachable and a month ago nobody was thinking about that, besides me, of course. Third is good because you are certainly qualified for the Champions League and then we do better than the goal that was set in pre-season."
United go into the match as favourites because of their recent form. Van Gaal's team have won five straight league matches while City have won just two of their last seven in all competitions.
Van Gaal thinks form will have little bearing on the outcome of the match, though. The former Barcelona manager said: "Manchester City has lost several games, but I don't think that shall (be) a big influence in the game because it is a special game."