#2 Barcelona (1997-2000), (2002-2003)
Louis van Gaal took over Barcelona in 1997, replacing the legendary Booby Robson. He helped the Catalans to two consecutive league titles in 1998 and 1999 and also won a solitary Copa Del Rey.
In spite of his success on the pitch with the club, he never successfully implemented his philosophy at the Catalan club due to ideological differences. This was the time when he started falling out with players. He famously had disagreements with Rivaldo who wanted to play as a central striker despite the Dutchman’s insistence that he play on the left wing.
Louis van Gaal left in the year 200 after losing out on the La Liga to Deportivo La Coruna. He infamously blamed his departure on the press, saying, “Friends of the press. I am leaving. Congratulations.” He went on to coach the Dutch national team for the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
He returned to Barcelona in 2002 on a three-year contract but the results were unimpressive resulting in Louis van Gaal being sacked as manager with Barcelona in 12th place, just three points above the relegation zone.
