The Dutch coach also says he would be happy to give the club his recommendations as to who he feels should succeed him at Old Trafford when his contract expires next year
Louis van Gaal claims the next manager of Manchester United will have to show confidence in young players or else he will find life at Old Trafford "very difficult".
The Dutch coach is expecting to leave Old Trafford in June 2017 when his current deal expires, although his future at the club remains the subject of intense speculation as United's season continues to disappoint.
Van Gaal has put his faith in a number of youngsters this season, most notably Cameron Borthwick-Jackson and Jesse Lingard as well as splashing out heavily on Anthony Martial.
The Dutch coach believes his successor will also need to give youth a chance and says the United board must be careful when making their decision.
"I hope people will look back in the future and talk of the young players as my legacy, but you can never tell," he told The Independent.
"The next manager would also have to show the confidence in the younger players. So I cannot judge.
"If United, after I retire, hire a manager who does not give the benefit of the doubt to youngsters, it shall be very difficult.
"It is also very important for the board of Manchester United to look at the profile of the new manager.
"If they ask [for a recommendation on the next manager], I shall give my opinion and after that, they can do what they wish.
"But I never reign beyond my grave and, when I am gone, I cannot influence or contribute."
- Goal