Doubts were raised about Giggs' future at the end of last season when he hung up his boots following a four-match spell as player-manager.
New manager Van Gaal brought five staff members with him when he was appointed in May, but he felt it was important to keep a link with the club's past, so Giggs was immediately sounded out about becoming the Dutchman's assistant.
Having been at the club for 24 years, Cleverley thinks the presence of the 13-time Premier League winner around the training ground can have a good effect on the squad this season as they look to challenge for the title following a dismal year under David Moyes.
"We have known (Giggs) for a long time and he is brilliant for the players," the Manchester United midfielder said.
"As a young player growing up at the club he has been the best role model there is.
"You look at his career and all the titles he has won and hopefully he can pass his knowledge on to the players.
"It is good to have him around."
Van Gaal will take charge of his third match as Manchester United manager in the early hours of Wednesday morning in Washington DC.
Their opponents, Inter Milan, will have a familiar face in their XI - that of Nemanja Vidic.
The former United captain joined Inter this summer after an eight-year spell at Old Trafford, where he amassed 15 trophies.
The Serb has settled in well at the Italian club and is happy to be working under manager Walter Mazzarri.
"He's a coach who explains very clearly what he wants so it's easier to do what he asks of you," Vidic told Inter's website.
"I'm enjoying it and I'm getting to grips with the way the team plays."
United defender Rafael will play no part in the rest of the club's tour of the United States.
The 24-year-old sustained a groin injury in training prior to United's 3-2 win over Roma in Denver last week and he has been sent to Manchester for treatment.
''As he was unlikely to participate in the remaining tour games, returning to the Aon Training Complex affords the best overall option for his recovery in time to continue pre-season preparation when the team returns,'' said a statement on manutd.com.
United's Premier League opener at home to Swansea is just 19 days away on August 16.
Source : PA
Source: PA