While not a direct criticism of Van Gaal, during Bergkamp's biography 'Stillness And Speed,' the former Ajax forward has a few choice words to say about the Man United coach's philosophy and how he constructs his sides. While the likes of Johann Cruyff relied upon individual brilliance to inspire his playing side, Van Gaal asks from his players the exact opposite, with the team coming before any particular talent. While the selection of a captain is a mantle the Red Devils' boss has been proven to take seriously, above all, the system and the collective come before any star player. "But what if you have ten mediocre painters and Rembrandt?" Bergkamp questions. "Do you tell Rembrandt he does not have to imagine and that he doesn't represent more than the others? Or are you going to give him the feeling that he is special and let him display it, so he can produce his finest work." The autocratic managerial style of Van Gaal may kick-start a stagnant Man United, with all players pulling for the same common cause of sheer improvement, but there is a risk that the lack of liberty within the coach's training methods could leave the more ego-driven players to question their worth and feel they are appreciated within such an egalitarian dressing room.
