But perhaps most significant of all will be his relationship with his captain. It was to Moyes’s huge misfortune that he could not extract a season out of Van Persie to match the championship-winning effort of the previous year. Van Gaal, however, is expert at knowing how to get the best from a mature player. True, he has always encouraged youth, but he also has a remarkable record in the manner he has handled the more senior egos in his side: Van Persie looks hugely comfortable in his presence. No doubt there will have been discussion about a wider role for the Dutch forward. Van Gaal has brought on an unmatchable roster of coaches, promoted from his ranks. Pep Guardiola, Luis Enrique, Clarence Seedorf and Jose Mourinho were all his proteges. Van Persie may well be the next in that illustrious line. Just behind Ryan Giggs.