Former Dutch coach Louis van Gaal has made controversial statements suggesting that Lionel Messi’s victory at the World Cup in Qatar was pre-planned.
Van Gaal, who made a rare public appearance at the Eredivisie awards ceremony in Utrecht, explained his prolonged absence from the public eye since the World Cup.
Regarding his thoughts on the World Cup final, Van Gaal said, “I don’t want to delve too deeply into it, but with the score tied at 2-2, we’re heading into extra time and penalties.
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Van Gaal: It was scripted
There were questionable aspects to how Argentina scored, how our team scored, and instances where Argentina’s players committed fouls without consequences. It leads me to believe that there was a predetermined agenda.”
When asked to clarify his remarks, Van Gaal responded firmly, “I mean exactly what I said. Was it essential for Messi to become a world champion? In my opinion, yes, it was.”
Van Gaal’s impatience with the topic showed as he added, “I believe I’ve expressed my viewpoint clearly enough. Why continue pressing me for more elaboration?”
READ ALSO: VAR Controversy: Ten Hag and Mike Dean clash over disallowed goal
VAR Controversy: Ten Hag and Mike Dean clash over disallowed goal
In another news, Erik ten Hag, the Manchester United manager, disagreed with the decision that Alejandro Garnacho’s goal against Arsenal was offside.
He thought the VAR used the wrong angle to make the call. But, according to former referee Mike Dean, the decision was correct.
In the game, Garnacho believed he had scored to put Manchester United ahead, but after VAR and the on-field referee Anthony Taylor reviewed it, they said he was offside. Shortly after, Arsenal scored, and then they added another goal to win the game.
