2. Van Gaal still working out his best formation
Such is the attacking quality that Van Gaal has at his disposal that, even after a comfortable 3-1 home victory, the Dutchman can’t necessarily name his best formation and XI this season. Although United cruised to victory, there was a sense that the hosts were still playing within themselves and were still a long way away from clicking, especially going forward.
Against Leicester, Van Gaal employed what at times, resembled a 4-1-5, with Wayne Rooney playing alongside Adnan Januzaj, behind Angel Di Maria in a midfield diamond. With the emphasis clearly on attack and with players getting forward and looking forward at every opportunity, United certainly looked more threatening going forward, than they have been in the past few games. Yet, it would be a surprise if he chooses the same side against Cambridge on Tuesday or against West Ham in the league next Sunday. Although there are many things Van Gaal can be criticised for, not being flexible isn’t one of them and as long as the Red Devils keep winning, they are unlikely to worry too much about the formation they employ and how they manage to get the win.