Manchester United need more speed and creativity, says Van Gaal

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal says he still needs to add more pace and creativity to his squad ahead of Sunday's derby with Manchester City.

United bolstered their attack by signing Memphis Depay and Anthony Martial in the summer transfer window, but allowed Angel Di Maria, Robin van Persie, Falcao and Nani to depart.

As a result, Van Gaal believes United are still short of quality in the final third and is keen on adding players with pace to his squad when the window reopens in January.

"I have said we need speedy, creative players in attack. You have seen which players I have bought - but we need more," the Dutchman said at a press conference.

"I think that all the players I want, want to come. So it is not a question of the players. It is a question of the clubs who are stopping them. I do know the players want to come to Manchester United. And I also think Manchester City.

"I don't think there is a difference [in size]. United and City are clubs players want to come to."

Just two points separate the two sides in the Premier League table, with City in second place and United in fourth ahead of the game, and Van Gaal stressed the need for United to keep their composure on Sunday.

"I think always the form of the players is a decisive factor, " he said. "And a game-plan and the referee. He can influence the game.

"And in a derby, a cool head is also very important. I believe our players shall show that. "

Van Gaal tasted victory over City in his first season as United boss last term, as they won 4-2 at Old Trafford, but stated he does not rate that performance as highly as other victories.

"Of course it was a fantastic afternoon and I drunk a fantastic glass of wine after that!" he concluded. "But if you ask me if that was the greatest moment, then, no.

"There were other games that, as a professional manager, were more satisfying than the performance against Manchester City. Tottenham away - in the first half there.

"And Liverpool away, and at home."