Football
Richard Jolly, ESPN.com writer 10y

Meulensteen rejected for United role

Rene Meulensteen has revealed he approached Louis van Gaal about a return to the Manchester United coaching staff and was told there is no role for him in the new regime at Old Trafford.

- Van Gaal 'interested' in Strootman

The 50-year-old spent 12 years, spread over two spells, on Sir Alex Ferguson's backroom staff and was the club's first-team coach from 2008 to 2013.

He left United last summer and had brief and unsuccessful spells managing Anzhi Makhachkala, where he only lasted 16 days, and Fulham, where he was in charge for three months.

"I would have been keen to go back," the Dutchman said at the release of the LMA Annual Castrol European Managers and Coaches Survey. "I spent 12 years at what is a fantastic club and never left Man United because I fell out with anyone there, but they've chosen to appoint Louis van Gaal and he has decided to bring in his own people so that is not an option."

Asked if he had spoken to Van Gaal, he said: "Yes, I know that is the case -- it has been confirmed to me."

Meulensteen believes he could have brought some continuity to a new-look coaching team, which will feature Ryan Giggs as Van Gaal's assistant.

"It is disappointing," he added. "When you spend 12 years at a club the size of Manchester United, working in every department -- not least for five years with the first team which were the most successful in the history of the club -- of course you are disappointed.

"There aren't many coaches who have spent so much time with one club as I have. You would think it would make sense to have some continuity, but the people who have made the decision think their decision makes sense as well so we'll see what the future brings."

^ Back to Top ^