Van Gaal as a ‘triple‑A’ alternative amid Dutch coach vacancy

Valentijn Driessen argues that Louis van Gaal, the 74‑year‑old former Ajax adviser, could fill the Dutch national team vacancy left by Ronald Koeman’s departure on Thursday, positioning the veteran as a ‘triple‑A’ brand for the KNVB. He suggests the move could open a fourth escape route for technical director Nigel de Jong, who must now balance tradition with new options. In his column in De , Driessen lists Pep Guardiola, Arne Slot and Erik ten Hag as the first options for the Oranje job, noting that each represents a distinct tactical direction for the national side. Driessen writes, “A triple A‑brand that would not be out of place at the KNVB and the Dutch national team: Louis van Gaal.” The quote underscores his view that Van Gaal’s reputation alone makes him a viable candidate.

Van Gaal quits as Ajax adviser after staff turnover

He adds that Van Gaal has laid down his function as adviser of the RVC at Ajax, describing his departure as “rightly done, because, as in all his football functions outside coaching, he has completely failed in Amsterdam.” Driessen stresses that the coaching role is a separate matter. According to Driessen, Van Gaal’s experience and stature render him a suitable alternative if the available Guardiola and Slot options prove unattainable. He warns that Nigel de Jong will have to make concessions to secure Van Gaal, and that any new coach must embrace the Dutch football identity—something Van Gaal previously distanced himself from.