Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal reveals he has prostate cancer

Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal says he has prostate cancer and has been receiving treatment, but still plans to lead his team at the World Cup in Qatar in seven months' time.

The 70-year-old told RTL television on Sunday that the players "don't know it", adding he has undergone 25 bouts of radiotherapy, including during training camps with the Dutch team.

The players "think I'm in good health, but I'm not", said the former Barcelona, Manchester United, Bayern Munich and Ajax coach, who began treatment last year after his diagnosis in 2020.

"It's part of my life," he added in an interview marking the upcoming release of a film about his life, entitled LOUIS.

"I've been through so much in my life, sickness and death, I've probably become richer as a person because of all those experiences."

Last week, it was announced that Van Gaal had tested positive for Covid. In 2021, he broke his hip when he fell off his bike.

Van Gaal, in his third term as head coach of the Dutch national side, sparked controversy last month when he described the decision to hold the World Cup in Qatar "ridiculous", accusing FIFA of being motivated by "money and commercial interests".

The Netherlands were placed in Group A with hosts Qatar, Ecuador and Senegal in Friday's draw.

United, where he was in charge in 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 the Spanish league, tweeted: "Our thoughts and prayers go out to former Barca manager Louis van Gaal... Stay strong, Louis, and get well soon."

Former