Louis van Gaal, 73, Declares He Is Free from Prostate Cancer

Former Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has announced he is now cancer-free after battling prostate cancer for five years. The 73-year-old was diagnosed in late 2020 but kept his diagnosis private until April 2022, when he publicly shared the news during his third tenure as the Netherlands’ head coach.

Van Gaal described his illness as an aggressive form and underwent approximately 25 radiation treatments, hormone injections, surgeries, and used catheters and urine bags. Despite his health challenges, he continued coaching and even managed the Dutch team through the 2022 World Cup.

Following the tournament, he stepped down to focus on his health and disclosed in September 2023 that achieving the ability to urinate naturally again would be a miracle. He admitted he could no longer have sex, describing it as a significant problem.

Now, his health has improved considerably. Van Gaal is completely free of cancer but remains under regular medical check-ups every few months. He expressed relief and optimism, stating, “I no longer suffer from cancer. It all worked out in the end, and I’m getting fitter and fitter.”

Throughout his career, Van Gaal has managed notable clubs including Ajax, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and was also the Dutch national team coach. He amassed a win rate of over 60% during his managerial career and is widely regarded as one of the sport’s most tactically gifted coaches.