Manchester United WILL return to greatness

Recipe for success: Kuyt believes Van Gaal and Van Persie will fix Manchester United

Dirk Kuyt is sad to report that Manchester United WILL return to greatness, thanks to Louis van Gaal and Robin van Persie.

Kuyt retains his allegiance to Liverpool after six years at Anfield, but he insists his Holland national boss Van Gaal will revive fortunes at his former club’s bitter rivals – with skipper Van Persie sure to play a leading role next term.

Holland face Chile on Monday, needing a point to ensure they finish top of World Cup Group B, having already qualified for the knock-out stage after scoring eight times in wins over Spain and Australia.

And Kuyt has told United’s players that Van Gaal is a great communicator with his players, but is also willing to take their advice – as long as they are able to win a good argument with their boss.

Van Gaal will take over at Old Trafford as soon as Holland’s World Cup campaign is over, but Kuyt does not doubt he will be a success after United fell to seventh place under David Moyes last term. 

Kuyt, now with Fenerbahce in Turkey, said: “I think Robin van Persie is an amazing player. He has shown that at United. ­Unfortunately, he was injured too many times this season.

“But I’m sure, with Van Gaal and Robin together, great things are going to happen with Man United … unfortunately! Van Gaal is an open style of manager. He has a clear idea of what footballers need in training and also outside of training.

“And if you want something to change, his door is open - but you also have to have a very good ­argument!

‘He treats players as adults. He is a very experienced coach and we are very lucky to have him. I think we have a great chance of doing well at the World Cup, but we have to take it step by step.”

Van Persie is likely to skipper United next season and has even been on scouting missions with Van Gaal.

Kuyt added: “Every player has a very good relationship with the manager - but everyone can see Robin has a great connection with the coach.”

Holland No.2 Patrick Kluivert also hailed Van Gaal’s management style, saying: “He has an open dialogue with players. That is very important.

“He is a leader, but you also have to have communication with the players because they have to do what he wants – and he is a good communicator.”

Source: Mirror Sport

By Dave Kidd