Louis Van Gaal Welcomed to Manchester United by Premier League Rivals

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has welcomed the appointment of Louis van Gaal at Manchester United having studied the Netherlands coach's methods during his managerial career.

Van Gaal was confirmed as the United boss on Monday and will take official charge of the club after the World Cup finals in Brazil.

The 62-year-old's reputation as one of the most successful managers in Europe means he arrives in the Premier League amid expectation he could return United to their former glory, after the club finished seventh last season and outside the Champions League places.

Rodgers told talkSPORT: "First of all, it was really sad that David Moyes didn't get the opportunity. Obviously with David gone, they were looking to appoint someone with experience and certainly Van Gaal is someone I have studied and looked at for many years.

"He has had great success and he has a way and a vision of how he wants the game to be played. He works with young players.

"Certainly his profile fits a club of Manchester United's history. As a young manager, I'm really looking forward to working against another great coach in the world game."

Last season, United watched arch-rivals Liverpool go from missing out on qualifying for Europe to going within two points of a first league title for 24 years and Van Gaal will be hoping to orchestrate a similar turnaround.

Joining Liverpool boss Rodgers in welcoming Van Gaal to United is Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho, who is well aware of the Dutchman's capabilities.

"He is a great man," he said. "He is a great football manager and I am happy he joins me in the Premier League. More important than that, he is a great man and I wish him good."

Van Gaal, who has signed a three-year contract, is among Europe's most successful managers having won a domestic title in three different countries and the Champions League with Ajax in 1995.