(Football news) Former Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has suggested that the departure of former Vice Chairman Ed Woodward could be the reason Erik ten Hag might be successful at Old Trafford. Speaking in a press conference ahead of the Netherlands’ game against Wales, the Dutch manager cited that the change in Manchester United’s leadership could be instrumental in the club moving in the right direction. Van Gaal had previously warned Erik ten Hag against joining Manchester United, calling them a “commercial club” and that he would be "better going to a football club".

When asked about Ten Hag at the press conference, Louis van Gaal said “There is now a new leadership. It was Woodward and now it is Richard Arnold and that can make the difference. So we have to wait and see. He (Ten Hag) has a lot of confidence. So who am I to say something about that?" Van Gaal’s comments about Ed Woodward were surprising to say the least, especially considering that it’s quite unusual for managers to publicly speak about their former clubs. The Dutch manager's comments further reinforces the opinion of Manchester United fans that Ed Woodward has been instrumental in the club’s downfall after David Gill and Sir Alex Ferguson’s departures. 

Van Gaal also spoke about Ajax defender Jurrien Timber’s potential move to Manchester United. The Dutch manager highlighted the importance of the 20 year old getting consistent first team football in order to make it to the World Cup squad. Van Gaal said “I think a player of his quality can play in the Premier League. That is not a problem. If he has to make this big step now, that's the question. "(If he does not play) then he is not so wise, I think. He has to play." 

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