Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has explained why he wanted the signing of former Real Madrid winger Angel di Maria. Van Gaal has likened Di Maria to Bayern Munich star Arjen Robben.
"I have bought Di Maria because he can play inside and wide," confirmed van Gaal at a press conference following the Capital One Cup exit at the hands of MK Dons. "It's very handy is that for a coach.
"So maybe you remember when I was trainer-coach of Bayern Munich, I bought Arjen Robben, also in late August. He could also play on the wings and inside so then I have always the opportunity to change [tactics] but that is a process."
However, van Gaal is not sure whether he will alter his system and formation to accommodate the South American talent. When asked if he may switch to a 4-3-3, he replied: "That's the process. I cannot clarify because we have to see in the process what we are doing. Exactly what I am saying is you cannot click your fingers and switch to another system. You are working and have to train with it.
"It's a matter of time because the process needs time and we shall see if, with Di Maria, we have to change the system or not. I think he shall contribute very much in our way of playing, he is also a creative player. I think that he can contribute and that's very important but we don't want expect, from tomorrow, that the world has changed - no. He needs to get used to the culture of the Premier League and to the philosophy of Manchester United."
Van Gaal added: "He was at my hotel and I spoke very shortly and he said he was physically well. I have to see that [for myself] as he didn't train today. Tomorrow, he shall participate in our training session. I shall see and speak more with him."
