Netherlands manager Louis van Gaal has suggested he ‘would have been happier’ to see Frenkie de Jong and Memphis Depay leave Barcelona this summer.
Louis van Gaal was keen to tell everyone that he never told any Dutch player what they should do in the summer transfer window, despite claims that he advised Ajax defender Jurrien Timber to turn down an approach from Manchester United which he also denies.
“It is true that many players called me in the transfer window,” Van Gaal told reporters, as quoted by the Manchester Evening News. “But I always ended every conversation with: ‘This is my advice, but you make your own decision’.
“I am happy with the outcome. But I would be happier if Frenkie and Memphis [Depay] would play more than they are now.”
The former Manchester United manager now admits that he wishes Frenkie de Jong was playing more than he currently is at Barcelona, which is something that could have easily been addressed at Old Trafford in the summer. Erik ten Hag wanted to sign his former player, even making him a primary target for the club — leading to a transfer chase that lasted over 100 days.
De Jong was also linked with a move to Chelsea but ended up staying at Camp Nou.
United ended up signing Casemiro from Real Madrid instead.
However, De Jong has featured in all eight matches for Barcelona this season, though only half of those appearance have seen him feature for over 60 minutes. In summer he spent a chunk of the pre-season tour playing at centre-back.
De Jong will be eager to impress Van Gaal during the international break because it will be his last chance to do so before the World Cup. He will be joined in the squad by Manchester United left Tyrell Malacia.
