The former Manchester United manager made some questionable calls for the group he's taking to Qatar - including leaving behind one of his most experienced players.
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The 33-year-old former Ajax and Barcelona man has been an ever-present in the Dutch national team, and was even given his very first Oranje cap by Van Gaal in 2013.
Cillessen played every game for Netherlands in their last World Cup in 2014 as they won the bronze medal after beating Brazil in the third-place playoff, and was named in the squad for Euro 2020 before he was forced to withdraw with COVID-19.
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He was widely expected to be back for the Netherlands' first World Cup campaign in eight years.
However, the 63-cap star has been left at home for the trip to Qatar, and reports in his homeland claim he was not best pleased, to say the least.
It is said the veteran goalkeeper 'exploded with anger' when he was informed of Van Gaal's decision on Friday morning, before the official announcement later the same day.
It's not the only surprise call made by Van Gaal, though.
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In-form Newcastle centre-back Sven Botman, who has been key to Newcastle's flying start to the Premier League campaign, was also left out.
As was Manchester United midfielder Donny van de Beek - although that is perhaps less surprising, despite his history of performing for the national team.
What was a shock, though, was the omission of Bayern Munich wonderkid Ryan Gravenberch, who is regarded as one of Europe's top young talents and was voted in the top ten of the Kopa Trophy for the best young player.
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Xavi Simons has been a place on the plane to Qatar after impressing for PSV since his summer transfer from Paris Saint-Germain, with the 19-year-old managing eight goals and four assists in 13 Eredivisie games this term.
The most surprising decision of all, though, was the inclusion of Tottenham striker flop Vincent Janssen.
Netherlands' World Cup campaign kicks off against Senegal on November 21, with tournament hosts Qatar and Ecuador their other opponents in Group A.
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