Football world rallies round Netherlands coach Van Gaal after cancer revelation

Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal has received messages of support from his former clubs Manchester United, Barcelona and Bayern Munich after revealing he has prostate cancer.

Van Gaal, 70, said on Sunday he had been receiving treatment since being diagnosed in 2020, but still plans to lead his team at the World Cup in Qatar in seven months' time.

United, where he was in charge from 2014-2016, were among those wishing the Dutchman a speedy recovery.

"Everybody at Manchester United is fully behind our former manager, Louis van Gaal, in his battle against cancer. Sending you strength and courage, Louis," the English giants tweeted.

Barcelona, where he was twice manager and twice won La Liga, said on Twitter: "Our thoughts and prayers go out to former Barca manager Louis van Gaal... Stay strong, Louis, and get well soon."

Another of his former clubs, Bayern Munich, which he managed between 2009 and 2011, said: "FC Bayern would like to wish former head coach Louis van Gaal all the best as he battles cancer. We all know how strong a person he is. Hoping for a full and speedy recovery!"

Former England striker Gary Lineker, now a TV presenter in Britain, also tweeted a message of support.

"Sending best wishes and hopes for a full recovery to Louis Van Gaal," he wrote.

Van Gaal told RTL television on Sunday that the players in the national squad "don't know" that he has cancer.

He said he had undergone 25 bouts of radiotherapy, including during training camps with the national team.

"In each period during my time as manager of the national team I had to leave in the night to go to the hospital without the players finding it out until now. While thinking I was in good health, but I'm not."

Van Gaal, who has also managed Ajax, said in an