2 days ago
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Robin van Persie is reportedly on the brink of a return to his beloved boyhood club Feyenoord - and it could mean a Champions League clash against Arsenal.
Since hanging up his boots in 2019, the former Arsenal and Manchester United striker has pursued a career in coaching.
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Initially, he embraced an unofficial role at Feyenoord as an assistant to then-manager Dick Advocaat.
Two years later, his position was solidified, and he stepped up as co-head coach of the club's U16s.
The 41-year-old was then promoted to co-head coach of the U18s and U19s.
But he left in May 2024 to become head coach of Heerenveen, his first official job in senior football.
Now he is in talks to make a triumphant return to Feyenoord - where he came through as a youth player.
As reported by Dutch outlet 1908.nl, the Rotterdam-based club is eager for Van Persie to replace Brian Priske, who was sacked last week.
The report claims Feyenoord have agreed personal terms with Van Persie but must now reach an agreement with Heerenveen.
While the iconic Dutchman favours a return to his former club, the ex-striker will not force a move.
Should he complete the move, Van Persie reportedly hopes to bring his trusted coaching staff, including assistant Brian Pinas.
Rene Hake, who has worked alongside Erik ten Hag at Manchester United, is also a candidate to join Feyenoord if the Van Persie deal doesn't go through.
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If he makes his way back to his old club, he could face Arsenal in the Champions League last-16.
The Dutch club can only face the Gunners or Inter Milan when the draw is made on Friday.
It could potentially throw up a match that stirs deep sentiments, especially given the way he left Arsenal in 2012.
After spending eight memorable years with Arsenal, where he became club captain and a prolific goalscorer, Van Persie felt the Gunners were not matching his ambitions to win major trophies.
He publicly stated his desire to leave, and despite offers from other clubs, he chose to join their rivals, Manchester United.
At the time, many Arsenal fans felt a profound sense of betrayal, particularly with his status as club captain, and by the end of his tenure, he had netted an impressive 132 goals in 278 appearances.
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Yet, Van Persie's choice was ultimately validated when he helped Manchester United clinch the Premier League title in his very first season.
He also won the Golden Boot award for being the league's top scorer that season.
His time at Old Trafford was successful but ultimately short-lived, as he was sold to Fenerbahce in 2015.
In addition to Feyenoord, the Gunners could face PSV as a potential last-16 opponent following their 4-3 aggregate victory over Juventus.
The draw for the round of 16 is set to be held on Friday at 11 am UK time in Switzerland.
Former Arsenal and Manchester United star Robin van Persie secures first managerial job at Eredivisie side SC Heerenveen
