Louis van Gaal aimed high in his first interview after being confirmed as Manchester United’s new manager.
On Tuesday, Van Gaal told Dutch television station RTL that he hopes to lead Manchester United to the Premier League title in 2014-15.
“That they are back as soon as possible at spot number one, that the fans will see them as champions of England again within a year,” Van Gaal responded when asked what his objectives were, according to the Press Association. “Spain saw me succeed in my first year and in Germany as well. In England, it must also be possible. But there can only be one champion. I would be proud if it works right away.”
Should he do so, Van Gaal would join Jose Mourinho (Chelsea in 2004-05), Carlo Ancelotti (Chelsea in 2009-10) and Manuel Pellegrini (Manchester City in 2013-14) on the list of managers who have won the Premier League title on their first try.
Manchester United fell from first to seventh place in 2013-14, so Van Gaal has plenty of work ahead of him.
The Dutchman didn’t reveal his transfer plans, saying he had only spoken to Manchester United about which players he wanted to keep in the squad.
“I’ve haven’t talked to them (the club) about money, only over the players that I would like to have and those that may leave,” he said,” Van Gaal said. “I’ve never been one to bother about transfer sums. That, the club can negotiate. I just want to know what is possible and what is not.”
What is certain is that Van Gaal will include young players in the Red Devils’ pursuit of glory.
“You do not only do it with stars, but also with youth players,” Van Gaal added.
Currently the Netherlands’ head coach, Van Gaal will take over at Old Trafford after he leads his country’s national team at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
