Manchester United v Manchester City - Premier League Preview
The Dutchman returned to training earlier this week but Van Gaal has deemed the striker not ready for the match.
Van Persie injured his ankle during defeat at Swansea in February and has missed United's last six matches.
But he had hoped to be included in the squad to face City and tweeted an update on his fitness on Wednesday.
He said: "Back to training with the group today. Was a great session. Happy to be fit and able to play again. Looking forward to my next game!"
The 31-year-old's absence has coincided with United's best run of form as Van Gaal moved Wayne Rooney back into his favoured centre-forward position.
In an interview with MUTV, Van Gaal also revealed he will wait before deciding whether defenders Chris Smalling and Luke Shaw will make the match day squad.
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