Former Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has claimed Ed Woodward 's exit from Old Trafford could "make the difference" for Erik ten Hag with the Red Devils.
The former Ajax boss has been confirmed as the club’s new manager following a disastrous period under interim manager Ralf Rangnick. He joins during a period of change at Old Trafford.
Overhaul is certainly not limited to the dugout this summer, with outgoing vice-chairman Woodward set to be replaced by Richard Arnold. The Red Devils will certainly hope all of those alterations bear fruit for the club having endured their worst Premier League season from a points perspective last term.
Van Gaal has suggested that Woodward’s departure could potentially be a huge benefit for Ten Hag as he prepares for his first season in charge since joining. Speaking at a press conference ahead of the Dutch national side’s UEFA Nations League clash with Wales on Wednesday evening, he said: “There is now a new leadership.
“It was Woodward now it's Richard Arnold, and that can make the difference so we have to wait and see. He [Ten Hag] has a lot of confidence, so who am I to say something about that?"
Both during and after his two-season spell with the club, van Gaal on numerous occasions expressed his displeasure at United’s set-up both on and off the pitch. The Dutchman criticised the Red Devils for being more interested in commercial affairs as opposed to success regarding silverware.
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Ten Hag has recently responded to those claims and has disputed that finances are the priority at Old Trafford - albeit recognising that profit goes hand-in-hand with a successful team.
Speaking in his introductory press conference shortly after being confirmed as United boss, the Dutchman said: "I draw my own line and I’m convinced that is not the case [Man United are a commercial club]. I spoke to the directors about it and football is one, two, three these days.
“Every club these days is commercial. Every club needs it. To be successful you need to do what is necessary, but football is one, two three in this club.”
Meanwhile, the former Ajax boss also confirmed that he held talks with Van Gaal ahead of being appointed. He continued: "I spoke with more people who have experience with this club. Experts, but finally I will draw my own line.
"Yes, I spoke with Louis. I was at his movie. I was at the premiere of his movie."
