Van Gaal: I was very close to being Spurs manager instead

Louis van Gaal was linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur for several months before United confirmed that he would be replacing the sacked David Moyes. Van Gaal has confirmed that the reports were not just rumours though, with a deal very close to being agreed.

“It was very close. Very close,” he said. “As a little boy I was a fan of Tottenham Hotspur with the team of Jimmy Greaves when he was the champion. Jimmy Greaves was my idol. They had fantastic white shirts. So I was very close.”

With the World Cup so close, Van Gaal has claimed that he will not be answering any questions on Manchester United until after the tournament is over.

“I have said to the CEO of Manchester United Ed Woodward that I only speak about the Dutch national team,” he confirmed.

However, when asked whether he thought it was important what the players thought of him, Van Gaal revealed that he did care.

“I think it is very important. I am a coach who wants a good relationship with my players and I do everything to reach that level. Sometimes it is not reachable as the players are not open-minded and don’t adapt to the norms that I put in the team. When you are not listening, always out, or I go out.”