Van Gaal hugs Senegalese journalist after heart-warming comments in press conference

The former Manchester United, Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Ajax manager is one of football's most iconic coaches, even in Senegal.

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Van Gaal's Oranje side took down Senegal 2-0 in their World Cup opener to remain unbeaten during the Dutchman's third spell in charge, needing a late show to seal the three points.

The result came after their star player Sadio Mane was ruled out of the tournament, but there was still some consolation for Brut Senegal journalist Papa Mahmoud Gueye.

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When it came to his turn to ask a question, he instead said: "I am a young journalist who has just started.

"I don't have any question for you, it's just the opportunity to tell you how I'm a fan of you since three years old."

Van Gaal, who tends to be either tetchy or hilarious in press conferences, genuinely looked touched, and started beaming.

"I can give you a big hug," he replied. "Because I seriously mean that I like you saying this.

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"That doesn't happen often. So we're going to hug each other like this."

Van Gaal's interview session then concluded, and he went down into the crowd to greet Gueye.

After a big hug and some pictures from the media, the young Senegalese then quickly took a selfie video on his phone which he later posted on Twitter.

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And if the episode wasn't already iconic enough, Gueye then repeated one of Van Gaal's most hilarious phrases from his time at United.

"Louis van Gaal's army?" he said to the boss. "You are in my army," the coach replied with a laugh.