Louis Van Gaal Tries To Thwart Manchester United's Plans To Recruit Ajax Amsterdam Coach Erik Ten Hag

Ajax Amsterdam coach, Erik Ten Hag, is a candidate for Manchester United manager. (Photo: Instagram.com/@afcajax)

JAKARTA - The name of the coach of Ajax Amsterdam, Erik ten Hag, is widely reported to be the new manager of Manchester United. However, not everyone supports Ten Hag to move to the English Premier League club.

The Dutch national team coach, Louis van Gaal asked his compatriot to cancel his intention to become Manchester United manager.

Sources have told ESPN that Ten Hag has been interviewed by United to become their new manager.

But Van Gaal, who coached United from 2014 to 2016, has asked the 52-year-old to think twice.

"I think Ten Hag is a great coach. I've said that many times," Van Gaal said at a press conference as quoted by Antara from the ESPN website on Monday.

"A great coach is good for Man United. But Man United is a commercial club. It's a difficult choice for a coach. As a coach, you have to choose a football club," he continued.

Van Gaal, who returned to the Netherlands last year, criticized United's plans for a pre-season tour during his first summer as coach in 2014.

He complained United were too focused on making money and not preparing enough players for the new season.

"We have to prepare for the new season and when you do commercial activities and such terrible distances, with having to fly a lot and jet lag, it's not positive for good preparation," he said at the time.

Van Gaal went on to win the FA Cup in 2016 but was sacked soon after to be replaced by Jose Mourinho.

Ten Hag is one of four names on United's shortlist, along with Mauricio Pochettino, Luis Enrique and Julen Lopetegui.

ESPN sources say United believe the Dutchman is a good fit for Old Trafford but they have yet to decide on a definite candidate.

"If he wants that, he will call me. We talk to each other. He must choose a football club, not a commercial club," said Van Gaal.