Luis Enrique has hailed Louis Van Gaal as ‘one of the best coaches’ in Barcelona’s history – both for his impact on the club and his development.
The current Barca boss was a member of the squad for both of the Dutchman’s stints in charge at the Camp Nou (1997-2000, 2002-03) in which time the Blaugrana won two La Liga crowns, the Copa Del Rey and the UEFA Cup.
"I was lucky enough to work with [Van Gaal] twice and I have a high opinion of him personally because of the relationship we had," Enrique said in a news conference on Wednesday, after rumours of Van Gaal’s retirement from coaching proved to be false.
"He's one of the best coaches we've ever had here [at Barca]. I learned a lot from him. He is a powerful character, but a great coach as well – I'd say one of the best I ever worked under."
"When he came to the club he fitted in well with his idea of possession and associative play; he's a very methodical man, very hard working and he had certain rules he was adamant he was going to stand by, whatever interpretations the players had of them.
"If I look at back at the two times he was here, there are some good memories and great anecdotes — I mean, his news conferences were legendary. He was an important person in my career, not just in terms of football but on a personal level, too. Behind that serious front he was a very sensitive man. I hope he comes to visit us sometime."
