Louis van Gaal, the head coach of the Netherlands national football team, has shared his thoughts on the 2022 World Cup being hosted in Qatar, and spoiler alert: it’s not a fan club meeting. Van Gaal called the decision to host the tournament in Qatar “ridiculous,” casually dropping truth bombs about money and commercial interests.
During a press conference before his side’s friendly matches against Denmark and Germany, Van Gaal was asked for his insight on Qatar’s hosting gig, which is set to unfold from November 21 to December 18—because nothing screams “football” like sweltering desert temperatures.
“Everyone knows I think this is ridiculous,” said Van Gaal, whose team has returned to the World Cup stage after a shameful absence in 2018. “It’s absurd to play in a country that Fifa claims is somehow trying to ‘develop football.’ I mean, come on. It’s all about cash and commercial interests. Show me the money, right?”
With a sprinkle of self-awareness, Van Gaal remarked, “Is that why I’m not on the Fifa commission, despite my extensive UEFA expertise? Because I’ve kept my distance from these organizations? You bet! But pointing this out directly about Qatar won’t cure the world of its problems, people!”
The 70-year-old coach is also moonlighting as part of a commission within the Dutch football association (KNVB), meeting monthly to keep tabs on Qatar’s human rights situation. Kudos for standing up, KNVB—one of the very few national associations brave enough to call out the alleged deplorable conditions faced by migrant workers.
After a disastrous visit to the Gulf state, the KNVB once stated, “We’ve never favored this World Cup location, and we decidedly do not support the treatment of migrant workers there”—in case you thought they were just being dramatic.
In the latest plot twist, Van Gaal announced he tested positive for Covid-19 shortly after his press call and is now isolating. His trusty band of assistants—Danny Blind, Henk Fraser, and Frans Hoek—will take over. Rumor has it they’ll continue preparations while experimenting with a 3-4-3 formation. So if you see the Netherlands winning with style, just know that Van Gaal is cheering from his couch!
