🗞️🛫Robin van Persie has taken a significant step in his coaching career by becoming the new head coach of Feyenoord.

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The former Arsenal and Manchester United striker returns to his boyhood club after managing Dutch side Heerenveen since May. As a player, Van Persie made 122 appearances for Feyenoord at the beginning and end of his career, scoring 46 goals. He also previously served as an assistant coach under Dick Advocaat and coached the club’s under-19 team. The 41-year-old has signed a contract until 2027 and will be assisted by René Hake, who was part of Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff at Manchester United.

“My bond with Feyenoord is very special,” Van Persie said. “I am really looking forward to working with the squad alongside a strong coaching staff.”

Van Persie departs Heerenveen, who are currently ninth in the Eredivisie, to take charge of third-placed Feyenoord. The club will face Inter Milan in the Champions League last 16 next month. Feyenoord had a 50% chance of drawing Arsenal, which could have set up a reunion for Van Persie, but instead, the Gunners will face PSV Eindhoven.

He replaces Brian Priske, who succeeded Liverpool-bound Arne Slot but was dismissed just two days before Feyenoord’s Champions League play-off against AC Milan. Earlier in the year, Van Persie was considered for the West Brom job before the club opted for Tony Mowbray following Carlos Corberán’s move to Valencia.

Feyenoord general manager Dennis te Kloese expressed his excitement over Van Persie’s appointment. “We are thrilled to welcome Robin, a true club icon, as our new coach,” he said. “He understands Feyenoord deeply and knows what it takes to achieve results. With his extensive international experience, he will be instrumental in developing our players. His football philosophy aligns perfectly with our vision—attacking football with courage, intensity, and determination.”

To support Van Persie, Feyenoord has brought in René Hake as an experienced assistant coach. The club also considered Shakhtar Donetsk’s Marino Pušić and Mark van Bommel before finalizing Van Persie’s appointment. Interim coach Pascal Bosschaart will return to his previous role with the under-21 team.

Te Kloese praised Bosschaart’s contributions, acknowledging his role in helping the team qualify for the Champions League knockout stages. “Pascal has done a fantastic job, and we are incredibly grateful to him. He stepped up when we needed him, showing his dedication to the club.”