Patrick Kluivert feels Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal will only receive recognition for his work once he retires.
Kluivert, who was Van Gaal’s assistant with the Netherlands during the 2014 World Cup, has offered words of respect for the current Manchester United manager.
“We are two completely different characters, but we hold each other in high regard”, said the former Newcastle United striker in an interview with Voetbal International.
“For me, Van Gaal as a coach is an example. Certain characteristics of his, such as his structure and vision of why he is doing something is valuable for any coach. Not only for me, but for so many coaches of our time.”
Kluivert, who also played under Van Gaal at Ajax and Barcelona, emphasised the fact that the best managers of the present generation have much to thank Van Gaal for, citing the examples of highly successful managers such as Pep Guardiola, Jose Mourinho and Luis Enrique and the current crop of bright Dutch managers like Frank de Boer and Phillip Cocu.
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“Frank de Boer and Phillip Cocu took over Van Gaal’s methods and even top foreign coaches like Pep Guardiola and Luis Enrique. What about Jose Mourinho? He was even his [Van Gaal’s] assistant at Barcelona and taught him his trade daily.”
The 38-year-old, who is currently the national team manager of Curacao, feels Van Gaal isn’t afforded the esteem he deserves in his home country.
“In the Netherlands, there is still some contempt towards Van Gaal, but he was so important for Dutch football. He still is.”
And Kluivert believes the 63-year-old’s contribution to football will only be recognised once he hangs his managerial hat up.
“Only when he stops, he will get the recognition he deserves.
"Then only the outside world can really focus on his achievements and what he has done for football; that is how it often is.”
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