Add another string to van Gaal's philosophical bow there.
The Manchester United boss has shocked us with a seemingly new sense of compassion. It turns out he isn't just all business.
But that empathy in him could see Angel Di Maria leave the club in the summer as the Dutch coach suggested that he understands that different environments can affect different people.
Speculation about unrest at living in Manchester has surrounded Di Maria in the last few months and van Gaal said that he would be open to a potential sale of their Argentine winger if it is what is best for the player.
"I am always like that. When you see my history, that's part of my philosophy. A player is not just a man who kicks the ball from A to B. His environment is influencing him," he explained.
Of course, there are still more important things than the well-being of a player. After all, the club have commercial responsibilities, too.
"I shall always be open but I know the commercial interests of the club and we have to respect that. You cannot give a lot of money for a player and next season put him out of your selection."
Besides, the Old Trafford boss is confident that the dressing room relationships are just fine.
"When I think that the chemistry between the players and the manager is not good enough anymore, then I go," van Gaal stated. "But when I see the chemistry between myself and the players now then I don't have any doubts. We have to continue in our process.
"I think he'll stay. His reaction and attitude after the defeat [to Arsenal] and the red card has been good. He is very pleased to be here at Manchester United."
So, basically, we're no further forward.
