Louis van Gaal says Monday’s FA Cup meeting with Arsenal will be 'like a Final’.
The Manchester United manager is relishing the quarter final tie, and said the game has additional appeal given it involves two of the country's top teams.
Manchester United v Arsenal
The FA Cup
Sixth Round Proper
7.45pm, Monday 9 March 2015
Old Trafford, Manchester
Live on BBC One
Winners receive £360,000 from Prize Fund
"It’s a game between two teams of 11 players," said van Gaal.
"United and Arsenal are placed third and fourth in the league, so it’s almost like a Final, I think."
He added on MUTV: "We have the support of our fans but Arsenal shall bring a lot of fans too.
"Also, Arsenal and United are now in third and fourth place, so it is a big event with two good teams. I hope we can give a fantastic match for the fans."
With both sides also vying for a Champions League spot, the Dutchman believes that the result could have a knock-on effect for the victors, and the losers.
Wayne Rooney celebrates as Manchester United came out triumphant when the pair last met in November
"I think if we beat them it is a big blow for them, but if they beat us it is a big blow for us," he added.
"It is very important game, not only for The FA Cup but also for the rat race."
“United and Arsenal are placed third and fourth in the league, so it’s almost like a final”
Louis van Gaal
Despite both operating at the elite level of management for over two decades, this game will be just the fourth time van Gaal has taken on an Arsene Wenger team.
And Wenger has never triumphed over the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss, with two defeats and one draw – but van Gaal has spoken of his admiration for his Monday night counterpart.
"In my opinion what he has done is amazing," he added.
"It can only be in England, I believe, where managers are so long committed with one club.
"It shows how much he can mean for a club as a manager.
"I like that – like Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsene Wenger – I think it's fantastic that you can do that."
