Van Gaal claims Netherlands’ World Cup squad is better than 2014 - www.asempanews.com

Although their squad lacks the leading lights of Robin van Persie, Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben that Van Gaal had at his disposal in Brazil, the Netherlands coach thinks his squad of 2022 has more to offer across the board.

With Germany and Argentina losing their first matches, there is the possibility of the draw opening up, and Van Gaal sees no reason why his team cannot capitalise.

“I didn’t see all the matches, but the fact that Germany and Argentina lost is somewhat telling, but I always say it’s easier to defend than it is attack,” he said in a press conference.

“I heard that Germany missed a lot of chances and then they lose.

“With Memphis, he was training in Amsterdam and that was individual,” he added

Depay is the only player to score in both of his first two World Cup games for the Netherlands, though Van Gaal feels PSV forward Gakpo, who is enjoying a fine season, has what it takes to become a superstar.

“He is a player with a lot of talent and potential, but he is young, and he’s a player that’s still developing, he has a lot of room for improvement,” Van Gaal said.