Louis van Gaal Claims He Missed This Huge Managerial Job In 2016
Reuters/Carl Recine
Former United manager Louis van Gaal has revealed that despite wanting the Belgium job after his sacking at Old Trafford in 2016, he missed out on the offer.
The Dutchman, who led United to FA Cup win in 2016, was sacked just days later, after failing to steer them to Champions League football.
Van Gaal’s United finished fifth that term, and the management signed Jose Mourinho, who was available post his departure from rivals Chelsea months earlier.
The illustrious Van Gaal, who enjoyed several successful spells as a manager during his career, was left bitter after not being allowed to complete his three-year contract at Old Trafford.
Speaking to Dutch newspaper De Volkskrant, the former Barcelona manager said that the Belgium job was there for the taking, but he missed the opportunity due to the severance payment issue with United, which saw him not being able to take up a job for a year.
“I had plenty of offers of work after I left United. The Belgian FA wanted me to become their national coach. But I couldn’t take a job with anyone for a year, because of the conditions United attached to my severance payment,” said the Dutchman.
“So I missed out on the Belgium job, among others, despite thinking it would be a terrific challenge.”
Eventually, former Everton manager Roberto Martinez was offered the job the Belgian FA.
Written by Rajdeep Saha 
Sports journalist with stints across print, digital and television. Contribution to each medium has been thrilling. Experienced in writing for this passionate game called football. Journalist by choice and passion.