Louis van Gaal insists Manchester United can catch Chelsea and challenge for the Premier League title.
The Dutchman was speaking after seeing his side play out a thrilling 2-2 draw against West Bromwich Albion – a result which leaves United 10 points behind league leaders Chelsea.
Although Van Gaal said that it was “two points lost” at Albion, but that he still has Chelsea in his sights.
Asked whether it was possible to catch José Mourinho’s unbeaten team, Van Gaal replied: “That’s possible but it is difficult to say because I am then arrogant. But I have done it a lot of times.”
United twice came from behind against West Brom with goals from Marouane Fellaini – his first for the club – and Daley Blind, to rescue a point that leaves them in sixth place.
“Two points lost – I think we were the better team,” the United manager said. “I am very disappointed about the result. You can say we were two times behind but I don’t think that West Bromwich Albion has created many chances – I think zero.
“And we gave the two goals away. I think we dominated the game – that’s what I want as a coach, as a manager – but the manager doesn’t want a result like 2-2. I said that to my players, I cannot be happy.”
United look a potent side going forward but continue to ship goals at the back. Nevertheless, Van Gaal refused to accept that he needs to compromise his attacking principles.
“I don’t think that is the solution,” he said. “I have already explained that a lot of times. It was two errors [against Albion]. And also in the past, because I think we could have eight points more and then we are up [the table].”
United, after what looked a relatively easy start to their campaign, now have Chelsea, Manchester City and Arsenal to come in three of the next four fixtures.
“Now we have to play against Chelsea,” Van Gaal said. “In the Netherlands they say that is another cookie, another biscuit. It is another level and we have to see if we can beat them.”
