Andres Iniesta says Louis van Gaal is 'special' and commands the respect of older players while bringing through young talent

Iniesta was a youth player while van Gaal managed Barcelona

Says the Dutch boss is imposing to veterans

Barca midfielder calls van Gaal 'someone very important to me'

Andres Iniesta has described new Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal as 'someone very important to me' and said that the Holland boss commands complete respect.

Iniesta was a young player at Barcelona when van Gaal was at the Nou Camp, and believes that the Dutchman's attitude to youth was vital in building his career.

The Spain playmaker also acknowledged that the United boss can be imposing, and commands respect of even the most experienced player.

Inspiration: Iniesta told Barca Fans TV that van Gaal was important in shaping his career at Barcelona

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Asked by Barca Fans TV whether his former manager was an imposing figure he answered: 'Yes. He already commands respect when you are a veteran, so imagine when you have just entered the team and you are young.



'But the truth is I have a special memory of him, because he is someone very important to me and if there was something he cared about was supporting the young players from the reserves.'

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Van Gaal was in charge at the Nou Camp between 1997 and 2000, during which time Iniesta captained the Under-15 side to the the Nike Premier Cup.