Marouane Fellaini believes Manchester United have what it takes to finish in the top four this season and insists they can become champions again next year . United entered the international break on a high after their 2-1 win over Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday . The victory stretched their lead over their arch-rivals to five points , with fourth-placed United only eight points adrift of Barclays Premier League leaders Chelsea with as many games to go . Marouane Fellaini believes Manchester United can challenge for the Premier League title next season . The midfielder celebrates Juan Mata 's goal against Liverpool that put United five points clear in fourth . Fellaini feels that United are ready to see the rest of the season through and secure European qualification . While Fellaini expects Jose Mourinho 's men to lift the title in May , he has backed Louis van Gaal 's side to become real contenders next season . ' I think Chelsea will win it ( this year ) , ' said Fellaini , speaking exclusively to Sportsmail . 'We need to be there next season to show everyone that we can be champions again . To do that we must work hard and to improve too . ' For now , returning to the Champions League is the priority for Fellaini and United after their season-long absence from the elite European stage . Van Gaal 's side face a difficult run-in to close the campaign with games against Manchester City , Chelsea and Arsenal all to come . Fellaini has been in top form during United 's last two games , helping them beat Liverpool and Tottenham . Having been signed as David Moyes ' only summer purchase in his fateful season , Fellaini had a tough start . But this season the big-haired Belgian has been a key part of the United side since returning from injury . But the win at Anfield inspired renewed optimism and Fellaini is confident that United will get over the line and finish in the top four . 'It 's massive because this season we didn ’ t play the Champions League , ’ he said . 'So , for a team like Manchester United , we need to make sure we qualify for next season . ' The Belgium international , 27 , is finally becoming a force on the field for United after enduring a difficult start following his £27.5million arrival from Everton 18 months ago . And he credits the influence of boss Van Gaal behind his revival . Fellaini is determined to help Manchester United earn a place in next season 's Champions League . Louis van Gaal and Fellaini shake hands at Anfield - and the latter believes his manager has done a good job . Fellaini has played more games for United this season but has failed to help them win any silverware . 'Van Gaal is good , ' said Fellaini . 'He has his philosophy , his own tactics . He has a vision for the team and he knows what he wants from the players , so it is good to work with him . ' I ’ ve played more games this season , so that is good personally . 'However , this season we haven ’ t won a trophy but I now hope we finish in the top four to play Champions League . The United players approach their supporters in the Anfield Road end after Sunday 's vital victory . Van Gaal has had his critics but his United side are now odds on to qualify for the Champions League . 'That is the most important thing that we focus on now . ' Fellaini is part of boot makers New Balance 's first football advert launch and follows in the footsteps of United legend Bryan Robson , who famously wore the brand during his playing days . 'Bryan Robson was a great player for United , so it is good to see a player like that play with New Balance , ' he said . ' I will need to perform at my best to carry on the high standard of players to wear the boots . ' Bryan Robson wore New Balance boots during his time at United and Fellaini will now follow his lead . Fellaini praised Wayne Rooney ( right ) as a great captain despite only being in his first year as United skipper . As Fellaini paid tribute to 'Captain Marvel ' , he also found time to salute United 's current skipper , Wayne Rooney . 'Rooney is a great guy , he is a very great guy and a great captain as well , ' said Fellaini . 'He knows how to talk to the players and to take responsibility . ' Marouane Fellaini was speaking to Sportsmail to promote the launch of the first New Balance Football advert # NBFootball . To find out more , go to : newbalance.com/football or follow @ NBFootball .
Marouane Fellaini believes Manchester United can finish in the top five . He says Chelsea will take the Premier League but hopes to win it next year . United are four points clear of fifth-placed Liverpool after 2-1 win at Anfield . Fellaini also credits Louis van Gaal for his new lease of life at Old Trafford . CLICK HERE for the latest Manchester United news .