Louis van Gaal keen to become Germany manager after leaving Netherlands role
Former Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal is reportedly keen to become the new manager of the Germany national team. Van Gaal has been out of work since his third stint in charge of the Netherlands, standing down from the role after his nation’s exit at the World Cup in Qatar.
The Dutchman spent two years at Old Trafford between 2014 and 2016 and was famous for his memorable quotes, funny antics and witty behaviour which grabbed headlines and turned him into somewhat of an internet meme.
Van Gaal went viral for thinking Chris Smalling’s name was ‘Mike’ during a press conference while sat next to the player, telling his squad to ‘get horny’ and his iconic dive in front of fourth official Mike Dean on the touchline during a game.
Van Gaal plotting return to management
The 72-year-old, who won the FA Cup during his spell at United, is plotting a return to management and it is reported that he is ‘ready to take over’ from Hansi Flick, who was sacked by the German Football Association (DFB) on Sunday.
The DFB are thought to be considering a number of names and former Bayern Munich boss Julian Nagelsmann – linked to managerial roles at Chelsea and Tottenham this summer – is believed to be the current top candidate.
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, meanwhile, is the DFB’s dream choice to replace Flick as they look to secure a new head coach before the country hosts Euro 2024.
Klopp’s agent dismisses speculation
Klopp was born in Stuttgart – managing Bundesliga clubs Mainz and Borussia Dortmund before he joined Liverpool in 2015 – and he has previously admitted that it would be a ‘great honour’ to manage the German national team.
But his agent Marc Kosicke has dismissed reports that Klopp could be tempted into leaving Liverpool to take charge of Germany for Euro 2024 – pointing at his contract with the Reds, which does not expire until 2026.
Germany’s recent struggles
Germany have suffered group-stage exits at the last two World Cups and crashed out of Euro 2020 in the last 16 to England.
Conclusion
It remains to be seen who will take charge of Germany for Euro 2024, but Louis van Gaal is reportedly keen on the role. The Dutchman will be hoping that his experience at Manchester United and with the Netherlands will be enough to convince the German Football Association to give him the job.