Yes, because he was asked about Timber. He would say the same for Frankie, but Frankie is too good to not play. If Timber would be this good, he would be starting for us all games. But ultimately, he is a young player that would probably rotate his first season here and play a good amount of games at CB and RB, but not have a guaranteed starting place.
If the player feels like this, then best he stays where he is. Van Gaal just said what is obvious, I am picking players that play regularly. If Timber thinks that could be an issue at United, then stay and develop further.