With Arne Slot, Peter Bosz, Erik ten Hag and Pep Guardiola all unwilling to take charge of the Netherlands national team for various reasons, 74-year-old Louis van Gaal has stated he is ready to open negotiations with the KNVB if the Dutch FA requires his services.
The information comes from sources close to the renowned coach, who has managed Ajax, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Manchester United and the Netherlands national side among others.
Van Gaal has led the Netherlands on three separate occasions, overseeing 63 matches and guiding the team at the 2022 Qatar World Cup, though he has never managed the Oranje at a European Championship. During his latest tenure as Netherlands head coach, the nation went 20 international matches without defeat.
Van Gaal is willing to hold talks with the KNVB, despite receiving interest from other top clubs.
Sources close to Van Gaal reveal he previously battled health troubles, but fortunately those issues are now behind him and he feels fitter than ever.
A national team role would be ideal for him, as he would not need to be present at training grounds every day and would only work during international breaks. Still, returning to the national team is not his fixed target; he will only consider a comeback if the KNVB makes an official offer.
Staying connected with national team players
Van Gaal’s strengths lie in his familiarity with most squad members. He keeps a close eye on global football and maintains strong contact with many Dutch internationals. Thanks to this, alongside his extensive experience as Netherlands coach, he is a viable candidate to succeed Ronald Koeman.
