And the legendary United boss believes the current crop of players at Old Trafford as well as new assistant manager Ryan Giggs will learn from the formidable Dutchman.
Van Gaal, appointed as David Moyes' successor in May, has endured a mixed start to life at United.
But ahead of Sunday's crunch clash with current Premier League leaders Chelsea, the 63-year-old former Barcelona and Bayern Munich coach has been given a huge vote of confidence from Ferguson.
"Louis is what I would call a managers' coach," the Scot writes in the updated version of his autobiography.
"He's one of those committed ultra-professionals. If I had to choose one word for him it would be "formidable".
"Football is his life. Wherever he has managed, every footballer will have learned from him. He was a good choice."
And Ferguson also gave the thumbs up to the appointment of Giggs as Van Gaal's No.2.
He added: "A terrific decision. Louis could help Giggs learn about this business; Ryan could help Louis in understanding the inner workings of United."
