Defence
LCB: Philipp Lahm
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Lahm was once described by Pep Guardiola as “the most intelligent player I have ever coached.” Such high praise from a brilliant manager only goes on to show what a player the World Cup winning German captain is.
Still playing at the top level and now widely considered as one of the greatest full-backs of all time. Lahm’s versatility and intelligence means that he can fit anywhere in the back four and was an ever-present figure in van Gaal’s tenure with Bayern where he won a Bundesliga and lost the Champions League final. Another easy inclusion into this list.
(Video Courtesy: BayernCompHD YouTube Channel)
CB: Danny Blind
As aforementioned, van Gaal loved to play a 3-man defence that was flexible and as such, needed certain defenders who would suit his style. At Manchester United, the system failed horribly at times, but at Ajax, it flourished, and Danny Blind was one of the reasons why.
Although already a regular by the time van Gaal took over, Blind became a key figure in his manager’s team and achieved his career’s best honours under his guidance as he went on to win the Champions League.
(Video Courtesy: AFC Ajax YouTube Channel)
RCB: Frank de Boer
Three out of the four players in this brilliant defence are from Ajax, and deservingly so, seeing how brilliant this team actually was.
Frank de Boer is the third in the list of most appearances in Netherlands’ history and the simple reason for that is he was amazing at what he did. Although primarily a left-back, De Boer excelled at the sweeper role and his presence in Ajax’s defence was crucial for their success.
Simply one of the best players van Gaal ever managed and he completes the back 3.
(Video Courtesy: Barcelona YouTube Channel)
