Babangida exclusive: Why former Barcelona coach Van Gaal so good at Ajax

Nigeria legend Tijani Babandiga has told TribalFootball.com that Louis van Gaal will always remain his "mentor and best coach".

Babangida began his career with local club Niger Tornadoes before Dutch Eredivisie side Roda JC as a 17-year-old in 1991 following a successful performance at the All-Africa Games.

An impressive two-loan spell with VVV-Venlo was the perfect preparation for Babangida as he looked to take the Eredivisie by storm.

In 1993/94, his first full season with Roda, the pacy winger firmly cemented his spot at the club with 11 goals from 29 appearances.

Babangida with Ajax in 1996/97

Another two successful seasons with Roda saw Babangida attract admirers in Holland, namely Ajax manager Louis van Gaal, who was looking to replace Babangida's Nigeria teammate Finidi George.

Babangida finally joined Ajax for €5m in 1996, going on to score 20 goals in 77 appearances and winning the Eredivisie title in 1997/98.

Asked about how he found working with former Manchester United and Barcelona manager van Gaal, Babangida told TribalFootball.com: "Louis Van Gaal is a very principled manager. He never hides his feelings no matter the situation.

"He is my best coach. He discovered me and brought me to Ajax. He is one of the toughest coaches in the world. A completely blunt coach.

"He would look into your eyes and tell you what he thinks about you without pretense. He would tell you in training what he wants you to do.

"I learnt so many things about football under him. I grew rapidly under his tutelage and he will always remain my mentor and my best coach."