Football
ESPN staff 10y

Van Gaal excited by United challenge

Louis van Gaal is aware of the size of the task facing him at Manchester United after being unveiled as the club's new manager.

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Van Gaal arrived at United on Wednesday, just three days after the end of the 2014 World Cup, where he led Netherlands to third place.

Now he is charged with restoring the 13-times Premier League champions back to former glories after their disappointing seventh-place finish last season.

He told a news conference: "It's the biggest club in the world. Within two days I already know how important Manchester United is."

"In China, in Brazil, when I was coach of the Dutch team, people are talking about Manchester United.

"I have to work, I have to prepare a team and I have to adapt to this big club. It will not be easy, but I will do my best.

"When you see my career, you can see what I have won the future will show if I can do that again."

Van Gaal also confirmed that former United players Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes and Phil Neville will all be given roles at the club.

The former Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Ajax coach added that he will take his time to assess his playing squad before deciding on making any more signings.

There has been speculation about who will be named captain following the departure of Nemanja Vidic to Inter Milan.

Although Van Gaal declined to name a captain he said it was a position he takes seriously.

He said: "All players are candidates, so I will take five or six weeks. The captain's role is very important."

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