The Dutchman has already led Bayern to the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal titles in his first year in charge and would hardly be able to improve on that next season should he clinch an historic treble.

However, he has rubbished speculation claiming he would depart in the event of victory over Inter Milan, although he can imagine leaving the club 12 months down the line.

"Even if we do actually win the treble, then I will certainly stay another year with FC Bayern," he told the Bild newspaper.

"Although it would then be difficult to improve things, I have already spoken to people here about next season so I cannot now leave.

"But if the board were to come to me and suggest extending my contract beyond 2011, I would turn them down.

"I am certainly staying with Bayern until 2011 and then we will make up our mind. Maybe the board doesn't want to work with me after then anyway."

When Van Gaal does leave, he will not necessarily be retiring.

He has one final ambition to crown his glittering coaching career.

"I want to become coach of a national team for a country which has the chance of winning a big tournament like a European Championships or a World Cup," he said.

"And if I was the 'Bondscoach', which is what the national team manager is called in Holland, then I would have more time for (my wife) Truus too."