Rene Meulensteen has revealed that he will not be returning to Manchester United in a coaching capacity because new manager Louis van Gaal has opted against recruiting the fellow Dutchman.

Meulensteen left Old Trafford after 12 years at the club following Sir Alex Ferguson's decision to retire after a 27-year glittering career last summer.

Shortly afterwards, Meulensteen took over at Fulham, but departed Craven Cottage in February before the club succumbed to Premier League relegation.

"I would have been keen to go back," the Manchester Evening News quotes Meulensteen as saying. "I spent 12 years at what is a fantastic club and never left Man United because I fell out with anyone there.

"But they've chosen to appoint Louis van Gaal and he has decided to bring in his own people so that is not an option. Have I spoken to Van Gaal? Yes, I know that is the case, it has been confirmed to me."

Van Gaal was appointed as United's new manager last month after David Moyes was sacked less than 10 months after being appointed Ferguson's successor.