Van Gaal returns as Netherlands coach with a glittering CV in tow

Louis van Gaal is back in charge of the Netherlands, pitting his weighty past against his age. Is it a worthwhile bet for the Dutch federation?

English · Original discussion in Spanish · Published

Van Gaal to the rescue of the Netherlands again: age and the past weigh heavy

Louis van Gaal is once again the coach of the Netherlands. The news has peine the debate over whether football is decided by trophies or by the present. While some recall the European Cup won with Ajax in 1995 and his fine work at Bayern, others point out that he is getting on in years and has been living off that Champions League triumph for decades.

The case for: a trophy record that never expires

The Dutchman's defence rests on facts: an Ajax side that played beautiful football and club titles in several countries. His spell at Bayern left a positive mark, and his previous stint ended at the World Cup in Qatar with the feeling that he had been robbed. For his supporters, experience is an asset money can't buy.

The other side: the price of nostalgia

Critical voices argue that the 1995 European Cup is a credential far too old and that age takes its toll. Moreover, his famous controversy in Spain still draws mockery decades later, which distracts from any project. In terms of performance, the question is whether the Dutch federation is betting on a name rather than a project.

The puzzling fact: the coach is still cashing in on a title won in 1995. And yet, some expect him to repeat it.

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Summary of a discussion on Burbuja.info - Foro de economía, actualidad y política., translated from Spanish and reviewed before publication. Read the full discussion (24 replies).

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