Van Gaal: trouble with Rivaldo and Barca

By European Football
September 21 2005

AZ Alkmaar coach Louis van Gaal has been speaking on his time at Barcelona and of his troubles with Rivaldo, admitting that the Brazilian had such power, it was the player that dictated where he would play. Speaking to DiarioSport Van Gaal stated:

"In the third year, after Rivaldo was chosen the best player in the world, he refused to play on the left wing - and I allowed this, because the players requested it.

"In the end, the team dropped their game level and it was a great failure on my part.

He went on to explain how he was let down by the Barca president:

"My other regret was I trusted (president Joan) Gaspart, who promised me signings, but in the end could not bring the players who I loved.

"I lacked a goalkeeper and Robert Enke came in as someone I did not want; also I had to take Riquelme, although I did not want him either; and I remained without Kily González.

"Also I only could loan, not buy, Mendieta."

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