According to ‘De Telegraaf’, Louis van Gaal has offered to return as Netherlands head coach following Ronald Koeman’s exit. The 74-year-old believes he has fully recovered from the health issues that prompted his 2022 departure.
Louis van Gaal could be set for a sensational return to the Netherlands dugout. The veteran tactician is reportedly ready to take the reins once again following Ronald Koeman’s departure, having informed the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) of his availability, according to ‘De Telegraaf’.
This December will mark four years since Van Gaal concluded his third spell in charge of the national side, following previous stints from 2000 to 2001, 2012 to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, and the 2022 tournament in Qatar. The 74-year-old originally stepped down after revealing his diagnosis of prostate cancer.
Following successful treatment, Van Gaal confirmed in the summer of 2025 that he had beaten the disease. A year on, he insists he feels stronger than ever and is determined to guide the Netherlands through the next international cycle. Notably, a return would see him lead the ‘Oranje’ at a European Championship for the first time.
The ball is now in the KNVB’s court to decide whether to take up his offer. Ronald Koeman’s second tenure ended abruptly after a Round of 32 exit against Morocco at the North American World Cup. Reports in the Dutch media suggest that while discussions were held with the likes of Arne Slot, Peter Bosz, Erik ten Hag, and even Pep Guardiola over the past month, no agreement could be reached.
In light of this, Van Gaal has offered to spearhead this new era with a squad he knows inside out. Should the KNVB look elsewhere, ‘De Telegraaf’ suggests he would be open to managing another national team outside of the Netherlands. Feeling physically revitalised, the man who has managed giants such as Ajax, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich clearly believes his illustrious career is far from over.