The big stories from Louis Van Gaal’s first Manchester United press conference

The Dutchman was in great form today...

New Manchester United manager Louis Van Gaal met the media for the first time since taking over this afternoon. The former Holland boss was asked about a whole range of topics and we've compiled the highlights for you here.

On the size of the club

Louis van Gaal on #mufc: "It's the biggest club in the world. Within two days I already know how important Manchester United is." — Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 17, 2014

 

Van Gaal: "I've worked at the number one clubs in Spain, the Netherlands and Germany. Now I'm at Manchester United - number one in England." — Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 17, 2014

 

On transfers

 

Van Gaal. "In the first three or four weeks I want to see what the players can do under my philosophy. Then maybe I will buy others." #mufc — Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 17, 2014

 

On the captaincy

Van Gaal: "All the players are potential candidates for the captaincy. It's very important for me, so I will need time to decide." #mufc — Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 17, 2014

On his backroom staff

Louis van Gaal: "Nicky Butt is already assisting us, Paul Scholes we will find a role for and also Phil Neville I believe." — Squawka Football (@Squawka) July 17, 2014

On the pressure to win the title

 

LvG: "Every season you have to prove you are the best - there is a lot of expectation and it's a great challenge" #MUFC — BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 17, 2014

Van Gaal: "For me, the challenge is always to come first. Not fourth. But that depends on things clicking between the players and manager." — Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 17, 2014

On injuries

Louis van Gaal confirms Michael Carrick injured himself in training in last 2 days and is out for "a long time" #bbcsportsday#mufc — David Ornstein (@bbcsport_david) July 17, 2014

Van Gaal oozed confidence and charisma throughout the press conference and didn't suffer any fools either. We think it's going to be a very entertaining season at Old Trafford.