Manchester United: Will Red Devils Fall Short of Clinching the Champions League?

As we continue to sing the praises of yet another squad assembled by Sir Alex Ferguson, question marks have to be asked with regards to this team's potential to win the Champions League.

Well, after yesterday's 8-2 goal feast at Old Trafford, most of you reading this would wonder, what the hell is he thinking?

There's no doubt that this crop of young players, along with a bunch of experienced members, have the ability to go on and win the league title yet again, although their seems to be massive competition from both Chelsea and rivals Manchester City.

Manchester has shown a certain shift in the style of play—quick short passes, somewhat Barca-like but with the keeping of the high-speed quick counterattacks that at times just leave you breathless.

Recent signings and players brought through from the youth system, having gained some Premier League experience out on loan, have shown great hunger and passion to win at every cost.

The likes of Rooney, Nani and Anderson have shown tremendous desire to make this team work, embracing the challenge and welcoming new faces.

Looking at the bench and injury list there is a host of talent—talent that many teams would only dream of having on their first team.

Last season's joined top scorer Dimitar Berbatov is sitting on the bench, unbelievably talented winger Antonio Valencia is still recovering from an injury, the captain Nemanja Vidic is out for a few weeks, his partner Rio Ferdinand seems to be fit but on the bench and Darren Fletcher, one of the most underrated footballers, on his way back from illness.

Above I just mentioned five players who haven't featured yet for the champions, or who've made minor contributions thus far. The list goes on...

After reading all of this many would smack me across the face and ask if I'm crazy for asking the question, Will Manchester United fall short of clinching the Champions League?

Personally, I would answer, YES!

United have everything—the best squad, depth both in experience and ability, amazing facilities and one of the greatest managers. So why, you ask?

I feel United is seriously going to challenge for European honors—which we know very well that's the aim, to topple Barcelona and once again become the dominant force not just in England but in Europe and the world.

While some critics would find floors in the goalkeeping department with a shaky start from David De Gea, I tend to differ.

I feel De Gea will come around, and will soon start to show top quality within a few weeks.

My real concern is the center of midfield. Yes, there's great promise from Anderson and Cleverly, backed up by Carrick, Fletcher, Park and Giggs, all of whom are capable.

But to beat the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona, you going to need something a little more special—a player that can on his own change games. A player like Messi or Ronaldo.

Yes, we have Rooney and I don't doubt his attributes. He needs to continue doing what his doing.What United need is a Wesley Sneijder. It's as simple as that.

Many will disagree, but have very little proof to show otherwise.

So ask yourself this: Would you want to see United fail yet again in Europe due to a short-fall in one department?

Can Manchester United afford to give City any room not just in the league, but in Europe?