Louis van Gaal has revealed that he turned down the chance to manage Tottenham Hotspur two years ago because Manchester United are a "bigger" club.
The Dutchman, who arrived at Old Trafford in the summer of 2014, witnessed his side concede three goals in six minutes to record a 3-0 defeat at White Hart Lane on Sunday.
Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy was believed to have identified Van Gaal as his first-choice manager, but ended up hiring Mauricio Pochettino once his target opted to join United.
This season, the two clubs have different priorities as United are fighting to finish in the top four, while Spurs are in the Premier League title race.
When asked in his post-match press conference if he regretted not joining Tottenham, Van Gaal told reporters: "In the balance, we are still ahead. The challenge is always bigger in a bigger club.
"I would have liked to have signed for Tottenham. Daniel Levy knows that, but the challenge was bigger at Manchester United and always shall be. I am sorry for Tottenham but United will always be the bigger club.
"I think it is a little bit pathetic that you ask that because they have won 3-0."
United are five points behind fourth-placed Manchester City, while Spurs are seven points adrift of league leaders Leicester City.
Danielle Joynson
