Can Manchester United Qualify for the Champions League?

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With no Champions League soccer for the first time since the 1995-96 season, Manchester United have struggled to return to their former glories. The side now finds themselves in one of the Premier League’s best ever Champions League qualifying races.

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With Second through seventh in the Premier League separated by only eight points, Manchester United find themselves sitting in the final Champions League spot, five points ahead of the surging Liverpool.

With matches remaining against Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal and derby rivals Manchester City, the Red Devils will be hard pressed to continue in their current form.

While United did defeat Tottenham 3-0, Louis Van Gaal’s men have much work ahead of them. With Liverpool currently playing in their best form of the season, one could easily make the case for Manchester United to be overtaken in the table.

League leaders Chelsea will also provide a tough task for the Red Devils. The club’s matches against hated rival Manchester City and FA Cup favorite Arsenal could bring about the end to Manchester United’s season.

While United have been on the rise since the midpoint of the season, the club’s form against the Premier League’s top clubs this season brings a sense of optimism for the supporters.

Manchester United were the last club to defeat Liverpool in the Premier League. Should the side replicate their performance in their next match, a draw at Anfield is possible.

Taking points from most — if not all– of the sides remaining matches will be key to the side’s finishing position. If Manchester United can manage to get results late in the season, then a return to the Champions League could be on the cards.

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However, the side has made a habit of losing winnable matches. Losing to Swansea City (twice) and Leicester City has cost the side nine valuable points in the table. Those nine points would put United tops in the Premier League, a point clear of Chelsea.

With that being said, a question remains for Manchester United. Should Chelsea stumble — much like Liverpool last season –down the stretch, does Manchester United have a chance at the Premier League title?

It is a highly unlikely situation. However, if it were to occur, do the Red Devils have the leadership and ability to win a Premier League title? Again, highly unlikely this season, but not so next year.

Will Louis Van Gaal look to make changes to the side during this summer’s transfer window? Can the Dutchman find quality players to improve his squad? Many questions lie ahead for Manchester United. Qualifying for the Champions League would at least ease the extent of those questions.

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