David Beckham believes that Louis van Gaal's commitment to developing youth players makes him a great fit for Manchester United.
The former Bayern Munich, Ajax and Barcelona coach was announced as the new man in the dugout at Old Trafford on Monday, and the ex-England captain sees him as the ideal appointment.
"He has got a history of working with young players, bringing players through academy systems at places like Ajax," Beckham toldSky Sports News. "That can only be great for Manchester United.
"As a Manchester United fan and for Manchester United as a club, to have someone like this with his pedigree ... he has worked with some of the biggest and best players in the world."
Veteran midfielder Ryan Giggs called time on his incredible playing career to become Van Gaal's No.2, a decision which came as a shock to Beckham.
The 39-year-old remarked: "I'm surprised he's retired because he was still playing great. Physically, he's still in great condition; to play for so many years at the top level you have to be in great condition.
"Now he has a new role at the club and it was great to see him walk out as Manchester United manager for those four games.
"When you've got someone like Giggsy, who all the players respect and all the fans love, it makes a huge difference. His role now has totally changed and I'm sure he will find it an easy transition because he takes things in his stride. He's not affected by anything.
"He knows the club better than most people who are at Manchester United now."
Fellow members of United’s legendary 'Class of '92' Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt and Phil Neville assisted Giggs during his spell in temporary charge of the team, a development which Beckham found moving.
"It will be great to see if Scholesy, Butty and Phil can be involved [in the Van Gaal regime]," he added.
"When I saw them all sat on the bench it was an amazing sight and it was one that made me emotional - I've spent my whole career with these lads. Of course I [wanted to be sat there with them]; I was proud to see that image.
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» Beckham: Youth focus makes Van Gaal a great fit for Manchester United
The former Red Devils midfielder believes that the Dutchman's commitment to developing young players makes him a sound appointment
Beckham: Youth focus makes Van Gaal a great fit for Manchester United
The former Red Devils midfielder believes that the Dutchman's commitment to developing young players makes him a sound appointment
2014-05-21T07:56:00+01:00
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