The European football association UEFA and its former club FC Barcelona soon sent a tweet. They followed Manchester United, which shortly after the news became known, said it was sending the former club coach “strength and courage”.
The 70-year-old Van Gaal said that he has had prostate cancer for quite some time and has now been treated 25 times. He kept it out of the public eye all the while, even the players of the Dutch national team were not informed.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to our old manager Louis van Gaal,” tweeted FC Barcelona, where Van Gaal was a trainer for two periods. “Stay strong and get well soon, Louis.”
UEFA sent a similar message to the world. “On behalf of the European football community, we send our best wishes to the Dutch national team coach. Our thoughts are with you Louis.”
Also Match of the Day-presenter Gary Lineker has a message for Van Gaal: “I would like to wish Louis van Gaal strength and speedy recovery, hoping that he will make a full recovery!”
Despite his illness, Van Gaal is determined to go with the Orange to the World Cup in Qatar at the end of this year.