Man Utd's 9 1/2 attack deadlier than Ronaldo, Messi

Pep Guardiola may have taken Barcelona to another level when they defeated Manchester United in the Champions League final in 2011.

Spurred on by the deadly combination of Lionel Messi, Xavi and Andre Iniesta, Barcelona revolutionised the game and dominated in Europe.

Manchester United are now reinventing the game by creating a new attacking position in football and proving to be more deadlier than Barcelona.

At least Robin van Persie believes he and Wayne Rooney have created a new position up front: The 9½, The Sun (https://bit.ly/SsIa2U) reported.

The Dutch international has been in prolific form alongside Rooney since arriving from Arsenal in the summer and has put it down to their interchangeable roles.

Van Persie said: “I call it a 9½ because you have two positions - the No9 and the No10 - and we are both 9½.

“We are just helping each other out. We both play behind and a bit higher up. It seems to be working well and I am very happy with Wayne - hopefully we can keep it going.”

United boss Alex Ferguson agrees with the former Arsenal captain, adding: “I think he’s right.

“There’s flexibility there and the right type of movement. They also both have the courage to play in these positions. Robin’s not far away in that respect.

“They’re both mobile players and good footballers with a great desire to play and win. I don’t think you saw the best of them as a partnership against Arsenal.”

Van Persie has for the moment laid to rest fears that Rooney would be confined to a deeper role as suggested by United legend Gary Neville.

Guardiola, on a sabbatical after four years at the Catalan club, must be watching the Barca revolution at Old Trafford with interest as he has been linked to several Premier League clubs.

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