Former Netherlands international and Feyenoord icon Robin van Persie has reportedly been appointed as Feyenoord’s new head coach, with a contract extending until June 2027.
The Dutch football legend, celebrated for his illustrious playing career with Feyenoord, Arsenal, and Manchester United, is embarking on a new chapter after previously serving in a management role at the Eredivisie club.
According to a post by renowned football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on X, Van Persie will be joined on his coaching staff by Rene Hake, who previously worked as an assistant under Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag.
The 41-year-old, currently managing Eredivisie side Heerenveen, is expected to finalize his return to Rotterdam later this week.
After retiring from professional football in 2019, Van Persie quickly transitioned into coaching at Feyenoord, taking on various roles in the club’s youth setup before moving to Heerenveen last summer, marking his first senior managerial position.
Under his leadership, Heerenveen has been competitive, currently sitting ninth in the Eredivisie table and achieving an impressive victory over PSV Eindhoven.
Feyenoord, who parted ways with Brian Priske earlier this month, see Van Persie as the ideal candidate for the role. The club is eager to bring back one of their most famous former players, and an agreement between all parties is expected to be reached by Thursday.
The rivalry against the Gunners might be revived as Arsenal fans were surprised and irritated when their captain, Robin van Persie, decided to leave the club. After an outstanding season in 2011-12, the Dutchman shocked the entire Arsenal community by joining Manchester United.
Much to the displeasure of Gunners fans, Van Persie went on to win the Premier League with the Red Devils and even scored against Arsenal in the 2013-14 season.
As Robin van Persie returns to Feyenoord, it could potentially create an intriguing opportunity for Arsenal. After advancing to the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, Feyenoord is in Arsenal’s bracket and may meet the North London club. If that matchup occurs, Van Persie would likely face a hostile atmosphere at the Emirates Stadium, adding extra motivation for the Gunners to defeat the Dutch club.
