Bayern Munich legend speaks about Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal's strict approach

Louis van Gaal worked with Mark van Bommel at Bayern Munich

Louis van Gaal is well-known for his strictness and his single-minded approach in football. He has been criticised in the past for his tough management style.

Now former Bayern Munich captain Mark van Bommel, who endured a difficult time under van Gaal at Bayern Munich, has joined in the criticism against him.

Speaking at a legends game between former United and Bayern players at Old Trafford, the former tough-tackling midfielder who won titles in Holland, Spain, Germany and Italy has warned Manchester United players ahead of the new campaign.

“He has a way and he goes straight. He has a way and it is his way. He wanted to go straight. He doesn’t want to go right or to go left, only straight”, recalled van Bommel.

“In Germany, we had the same problems as United. It is a total 100 percent change. Given the time, he has good ideas how to play on the pitch. But he is not easy to work with. On the pitch, he is good but outside, it was a little bit difficult. Maybe that is the life of a coach because sometimes you have to make decisions that are not so nice.”

Under Louis van Gaal’s first season in Germany, Mark van Bommel led Bayern Munich to a league and cup double during the 2009/10 season, narrowly missing out on the treble by losing to Inter Milan in the Champions League final.

However, off the pitch, the pair never managed a healthy relationship, leading to the eventual exit of van Bommel who joined AC Milan halfway through the next season.

“He is different from other coaches. You have to get used to him and if you do it is simple. Have respect for him but don’t be scared.”