New Delhi: Robin van Persie is set to take over as Feyenoord head coach, just a year into his managerial career. The 41-year-old, currently in charge of Heerenveen, is expected to be unveiled next week, with Feyenoord paying compensation to secure his release. His return to Rotterdam comes after the club sacked Brian Priske earlier this month following a disappointing run.
For van Persie, this is a major step in his coaching journey. After retiring in 2018, he started working with Feyenoord’s youth teams before taking his first senior job at Heerenveen in May 2024. He led them to a ninth-place finish in the Eredivisie, impressing with his tactical approach. Feyenoord now want him to lead the club forward as they prepare for the Champions League last-16.
A potential showdown with Arsenal could make his appointment even more intriguing. The Champions League draw could see Feyenoord face the Gunners, setting up a reunion between van Persie and his former club. Given his history with Arsenal and the reaction he still gets from their fans, this could be one of the standout ties of the round.
Robin van Persie to lead Feyenoord into the UEFA Champions League
🚨 Feyenoord on verge of appointing Robin van Persie as head coach. 41yo currently leading Heerenveen but agreement between all parties expected to be struck on Thursday for ex-Arsenal + Man Utd striker to succeed Brian Priske at #Feyenoord @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/xJgmaox7HB
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) February 19, 2025
Feyenoord’s decision to turn to van Persie follows his steady work at Heerenveen. His connection with the club, where he started and finished his playing career, makes this an emotional return. Fans will hope he can bring the same passion he showed on the pitch to the dugout.
If the draw pits Feyenoord against Arsenal, van Persie will find himself in the spotlight once again. His move to Manchester United in 2012 strained his relationship with Arsenal fans, and facing them in Europe would add extra spice to the tie.
Van Persie and Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta shared a season together in North London, and the Dutchman has previously backed his former teammate to succeed in coaching. Now, he could go head-to-head with him in one of the biggest tests of his young managerial career.
Feyenoord’s Champions League knockout phase run remains a key focus, but the club also needs stability after parting ways with Priske just months after Arne Slot left for Liverpool. Van Persie’s return is seen as a long-term move, bringing in a figure who understands Feyenoord’s culture and ambitions.
With confirmation expected soon, Feyenoord fans will be eager to see how van Persie adapts to the challenge. If an Arsenal showdown is on the cards, the football world will be watching closely.
Robin van Persie is set to become Feyenoord’s new head coach, with a potential Champions League clash against Arsenal adding extra intrigue to his return to his boyhood club. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
