Louis van Gaal

Louis van Gaal involvement in football started as a midfield player. At the age of 20, he joined Ajax, but was never chosen to play in the first team. In 1977 van Gaal made his Eredivisie debut for Telstar, followed by Sparta Rotterdam.

He later joined AZ, where he also became assistant coach in 1986. After a short career at AZ, he returned to Ajax to become Leo Beenhakker's assistant. When Beenhakker left in 1991, Van Gaal took over as manager.

Van Gaal was Ajax manager from 1991 until 1997. Under Van Gaal, Ajax became the Eredivisie champions 3 times, in 1993/94, 1994/95 and 1995/96. He also led Ajax to the KNVB Cup in 1992/93. On the European scene, Ajax captured the UEFA Cup in 1991/92 and the UEFA Champions League in 1994/95.

Van Gaal's first term as Netherlands manager was an unsuccessful qualification for the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

Under Van Gaal managership, AZ finished 2nd in the Eredivisie in 2005/06 and 3rd in 2006/07. Van Gaal also led AZ to runners-up in the 2006/07 KNVB Cup.

Van Gaal returned as Netherlands manager and lead them undefeated through its 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification and group stage. Losing the semi final to Argentina through a penalty shootout, Van Gaal's last match was winning the 3rd place match against Brazil.