Van Gaal says Darmian will be back-up to Valencia at right-back
Louis van Gaal has revealed new Manchester United signing Matteo Darmian will start the season as back-up to first-choice right-back Antonio Valencia.
It was believed Darmian, signed for £12.7million ($20m) from Serie A side Torino this summer, would assume the role of first-choice full-back in place of Antonio Valencia, the winger having fulfilled the role out of position in 18 Premier League games last season.
But Van Gaal has revealed his second of four signings so far this summer will have to earn his place in the starting XI, with Valencia, who will miss United's pre-season clash with San Jose Earthquakes with a minor knock, reprising his role on the right.
"We have brought Darmian for the second position behind Valencia," he told reporters. "Now already because of that injury [Paddy] McNair has to play there."
The Dutchman was then questioned over the club's pursuit of Real Madrid centre-half Sergio Ramos, remaining coy on links to the Spaniard who looks increasingly likely to stay in La Liga.
"I cannot talk about these rumors," Van Gaal added. "I have said in a lot of press conferences that it's a process. Maybe Mr Ramos is in the process - you never know."
