Revealed: Bayern Munich made 'surprise' approach to former Barcelona & Man Utd boss Louis van Gaal in search for new manager

Van Gaal has revealed that Bayern made an approach to appoint him after the departure of Thomas Tuchel. The club eventually hired Vincent Kompany from Burnley in a shock move but the Dutchman says he could have returned to the club he managed between 2009 and 2011.

During his time in Germany, Van Gaal won the Bundesliga in 2009-10 and also lifted the DFB-Pokal. They were beaten Champions League finalists, too, and Bayern were seemingly keen on handing the ex-Manchester United boss a way back into the game. He has been out of work since leaving his post as Netherlands manager in 2022. Bayern also approached Xabi Alonso and Julian Nagelsmann but were rejected by both.

Speaking to RTL, van Gaal said he rejected the offer immediately as he is only interested in managing at international level.

He said:“As a national team coach, you’re busy for most periods and during the year you scout with your staff. That could still be possible."

Bayern play Tottenham twice in quick succession as they continue their preparations for the new season. Their first competitive fixture of the season comes against Ulm in the DFB-Pokal.