Louis van Gaal announced in 2022 that he had an aggressive form of prostate cancer and the former Manchester United boss has now revealed that he is cancer free
Louis van Gaal
Louis van Gaal has announced he is cancer free(Image: Getty Images)
Former Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has revealed he is "no longer bothered by cancer" after undergoing treatment. Van Gaal announced in 2022 that he had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer.
At the time, Van Gaal was in his third spell in charge of the Netherlands and he continued as manager until they were knocked out of the Qatar World Cup on penalties by eventual winners Argentina.
He has not returned managed since then, but the 73-year-old has hinted at a return to the dugout now that he is cancer free. In an appearance on Dutch talk show Humberto, Van Gaal revealed: "Two years ago, I had a few surgeries, and it was all bad, including my fitness, but it all turned out well.
"I'm no longer bothered by the cancer but I still have check-ups every three months. My PSA level is measured and it's 0.0.
"That's going well, and the spread has also remained limited. I'm getting fitter and fitter. I'm 73, so I look good, don't I?"
Van Gaal was linked with the Borussia Dortmund job earlier this year, but has said he is only interested in coaching a national team. He told Sky Sports Germany in January: "No, that's not conceivable for me. I would only consider a position as a national team coach."
Van Gaal spent two years in charge of United between 2014 and 2016 and was sacked just two days after winning the FA Cup. He has also spent time in charge of Ajax and Bayern Munich and had two spells at Barcelona.
Speaking back in 2023, Van Gaal admitted it would be a "miracle" if he can become fully independent due to the physical toll the disease and the treatments have had on him.
Manager Louis van Gaal of Manchester United celebrates in the dressing room with the FA Cup trophy
Van Gaal won the FA Cup with Manchester United in 2016
"How am I doing? Well, I had surgery two or three weeks ago," he said in September 2023. "They have tried to put everything in order, details of which I won't tire you with further, but now we have to wait and see.
"On September 19, I have to go back again and then everything will be decided - and then a miracle could take place that I am able to go the toilet by myself again."
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