We're not the United of old, says Angel di Maria as Van Gaal methods come under scrutiny
Argentine winger moves to defend manager ahead of crucial QPR clash
Manchester United forward Angel di Maria believes the playing style introduced by manager Louis van Gaal can help the club achieve their targets this season.
We're beginning something new here
The minimum United supporters expect from this campaign is for the club to secure a return to the Champions League.
However, Van Gaal has received some criticism in recent weeks for a more direct style with long balls, although Di Maria claims the players have complete faith in the Dutchman's approach.
"We're focusing on growing as a team," said the Argentina international. "From the start of the season to now you can see that we've grown. We weren't so great at the beginning, but we've started getting a few victories under our belt.
"There are some people saying that we're not playing in a particularly good style, or that's not the old Manchester United. But it's not, we're beginning something new here.
"We've got a great new style, we've got a great new manager and we're all working hard now to make sure that we're pulling Manchester United back to where it belongs.