The much-anticipated return of G F Handel to Old Trafford
We're almost back!
By Chris O'Brien
May 16 2015
After one season away, Manchester United are a single point from a guaranteed return to the Champions League, and its famous music, following a 2-1 victory at Crystal Palace.
With a top four finish seemingly in the bag for a while, United had done their best to let Liverpool back into contention with a hapless run of three straight defeats - including a pretty dismal recent home reverse to West Bromwich Albion.
However, victory at Selhurst Park - combined with Chelsea holding the Scousers - means only a bizarre set of results would now deny the Red Devils a swift return to Europe's elite competition.
Against the Eagles, Juan Mata Garcia had put the visitors on their way from the penalty spot. Jason Puncheon's free-kick levelled things up, but Ashley Young and born again Marouane Fellaini combined for the winning goal; an opportunistic header from the former a Everton man.
This achievement means Louis van Gaal has effectively met first season requirements. A quick return was his main target - and, though not a sensational season, the Dutchman has safely steered his new charges back up the table.
With the season petering out quite remarkably, a busy summer awaits. Despite LVG spending big since his arrival, United's weaknesses are quite clear and major signings such as Angel di Maria and Radamel Falcao have not met par. Meanwhile, the arrival of Memphis Depay has already kick-started speculation of a new-look United.
The season draws to a close with top-flight fixtures against Arsenal and Hull. Even two wins couldn't prevent United from a second lowest tally of Premier League points for a season, but van Gaal has beaten Moyes and, so, George Frideric Handel's music can return to Old Trafford - "The Champions".