Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal reveals cancer diagnosis: 'It's part of my life'

Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal has said 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 Dutchman 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 manager, 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."

Van Gaal is in his third term as head coach of the Dutch national side, who were placed in Group A for the 2022 World Cup alongside 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 Premier League club 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."

Everybody at Manchester United is fully behind our former manager, Louis van Gaal, in his battle against cancer.Sending you strength and courage, Louis ❤️ pic.twitter.com/axcB7mV5To

Van Gaal returned to the Dutch national team after the resignation of Frank de