A season ago Manchester United were not even in the Champions League. Now, manager Louis Van Gaal is talking up their chances of reaching the final.
Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s heavyweight clash with German giants Wolfsburg, the Red Devils boss admitted that his side are aiming to make it all the way to the ultimate game, with the hopes of even lifting the trophy.
The Dutch tactician, however, did confess that his side need to improve on their current form if they wish to make the final, whilst also discussing the importance of winning at home.
"In the Champions League you need to win all your home matches, otherwise it'll be very difficult. The important thing is we win," Van Gaal said, ahead of their Old Trafford encounter with Die Wolfe.
"We've improved that when you compare with the team of last year. We still need time to improve. We have to improve to win the Premier League or a tournament like the Champions League. We're still improving and I see that every week.
"Reaching the final is also an aim. Winning the final is a little bit of luck, I think. It's not only quality, it's also luck.”
"Reaching the final is a fantastic result, but in the media, it's nothing. Second is not the best, and that's all that counts. But as a manager, when you reach the final, you've done fantastically."
With the 20-time English Premier League giants securing qualification into Europe’s top club competition, summer additions were required at the Theatre of Dreams.
Several names were recruited, Anthony Martial grabbing the most media attention, but Van Gaal instead held special praise for midfield duo Bastian Schweinsteiger and Morgan Schneiderlin.
"You can see that already, he's accepted as a leading player. That's why we have bought him from Bayern Munich," the 64-year-old continued to say.
"I believe in mixtures between youth and older players, and he is an example for the young players. I'm very happy with him.
"We have made progress in the maturity and the balance of the team, that's also why Schweinsteiger is here but also Schneiderlin gives more composure."
