Season Expectations
Van Gaal will be expected to lead United back to the top four position that they have called their own for so long, but the Dutchman is likely to understand that it is an achievement that is easier to say than it is to do. The big change at the club this summer has been the manager himself and, as experienced and talented as he undoubtedly is, van Gaal alone is not enough to solve all of the problems of last season. Most realistic United fans will accept that a title challenge will be beyond them – although the lack of continental football will really put the pressure on for United to really concentrate on achieving domestically.