As the January transfer window edges closer, the transfer rumours begin to return. At Manchester United a new player seems to be linked with the club daily. But this week multiple reports have surfaced claiming that Louis Van Gaal is attempting to reunite himself with Arjen Robben. According to the Express he has been urging United to do “everything they can” to secure the signature of the Dutch winger. Robben has twice been managed by Van Gaal, during his two year stint as Bayern Munich’s manager between 2009 and 2011, as well as at this summer’s World Cup. The pair have a strong relationship and Van Gaal is known to be able to bring out the best from Robben, who would be a great addition to any team, especially the already strong United squad.
Manchester United have always been known for their fast paced and tricky wingers, however this is something that has been sorely missed at Old Trafford in recent years, particularly since the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo. The players who were left behind and brought in were poor replacements, as Antonio Valencia, Nani and Ashley Young have never recaptured the wing play that the Red Devils faithful were used to seeing. Although the record summer signing of Angel Di Maria certainly added some much needed quality, he has started off his Manchester United career in a central midfield role that has allowed him to help in defence as well as creating a lot of chances when going forward. Robben would be ideal to add some pace and skill on the flanks, and if Di Maria returns to playing out wide, the two of them could very easily form a partnership that would be terrifying for any opposing full backs.
Arjen Robben is a world class player who would fit right in with the squad in terms of ability. He is also very familiar with Van Gaal’s famed philosophy and is used to his style of play. Not only does that mean he won’t have to adjust, it also means that he would be able to instil this into the other players and hopefully improve performances on the pitch. Robben offers a lot in front of goal – so far this season he has scored six goals, while providing three assists and creating thirty chances in just ten games in the Bundesliga. Those kind of stats would be a huge boost for a United side that has struggled to carve out goalscoring opportunities, especially in the absence of Di Maria. This is evident by the fact United only managed three shots in ninety minutes against Southampton.
Although signing the Flying Dutchman would be ideal for Manchester United and Van Gaal in particular, they need to ensure they are spending money improving the positions in which they are weakest. For United defence has to be a priority as the displays this season have been appalling at times. In January and next summer the focus needs to be on finding players to secure the Red Devils at the back. United must also be mindful of ensuring they don’t overpay for a 30-year-old winger who could quite possibly lose his pace within a few years. With that in mind however, signing Arjen Robben could make a huge difference to Van Gaal’s team. He could be the final piece and add some more world-class quality to an already fearsome attacking lineup.
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