Louis van Gaal has been appointed manager of Manchester United, joining the club on a three-year deal.

Van Gaal will still manage the Netherlands in the World Cup.

Ryan Giggs will retire as a player, but remain with the club as van Gaal's top assistant.

United's executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward told the club's official website: "In Louis van Gaal, we have secured the services of one of the outstanding managers in the game today. He has achieved many things in his career to date and Old Trafford provides him with a fitting stage on which to write new chapters in the Manchester United story.

"Everyone is very excited about this new phase in the club's history. His track record of success in winning leagues and cups across Europe throughout his career makes him the perfect choice for us.

"People know him as a larger-than-life character but I have also been extremely impressed by his intelligence, thoughtful approach to the role and his diligence. I'm looking forward to working with him."

Van Gaal has previously been at Ajax, Barcelona, AZ Alkmaar and Bayern Munich.