Although he’s on the road to recovery, the Dutch coach currently has no desire to return to club football.
After a long battle with prostate cancer, Louis van Gaal is now cancer-free and looking forward to returning to normal life. He’s eager to take on the challenge of coaching once again—sooner rather than later.
Three years ago, van Gaal publicly revealed that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Speaking on a Dutch television talk show recently, he confirmed that he has now recovered.
At the time of his diagnosis, van Gaal was managing the Netherlands national team. However, he stepped away from coaching following the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Now, after extensive treatment and rehabilitation, the 73-year-old is considering a return to the demanding routine of top-level football.
“Two years ago, I underwent several surgeries. My condition wasn’t good back then. But in the end, the treatment worked. I’ve had regular check-ups every few months and everything is going well. I’m getting fitter with each passing day.”
Van Gaal’s decorated career includes three stints as head coach of the Dutch national team and two separate terms each at Ajax and Barcelona. He has also managed European giants Bayern Munich and Manchester United.
Despite his wealth of club experience, van Gaal says he isn’t interested in returning to club management. Instead, he’s open to coaching a top-tier national team.
Currently, he’s serving as a special advisor at Ajax, the club where he won three league titles and the UEFA Champions League early in his managerial career. He also lifted league trophies with both Barcelona and Bayern Munich, adding to his long list of accomplishments.
