Robin van Persie

Nationality

Dutch

Date of Birth

06-08-1983

On the Pitch

Robin van Persie is widely regarded as one of the most gifted strikers of his generation. He began his professional career at Feyenoord, winning the UEFA Cup in 2002. In 2004, he joined Arsenal, where he scored 132 goals in 278 appearances and was named PFA Players’ Player of the Year in 2012. A move to Manchester United followed in 2012, and he played a pivotal role in securing the Premier League title in his debut season, finishing as the league’s top scorer. Van Persie concluded his club career with stints at Fenerbahçe and a return to Feyenoord, retiring in 2019. Internationally, he earned 102 caps for the Netherlands, scoring a record 50 goals and representing his country in three World Cups and two European Championships. Famed for his wonderful left foot, the forward was the creator behind some outrageous and historical goals. After his playing career, he became a manager.

Off the Pitch

Following his retirement, Van Persie transitioned into coaching, starting with youth teams at Feyenoord. In 2024, he took on his first senior managerial role at Heerenveen. Despite mixed results, his commitment to coaching remained steadfast. In February 2025, he returned to Feyenoord as head coach, signing a contract until 2027. Under his leadership, the team achieved a strong finish in the Eredivisie and qualified for the UEFA Champions League qualifiers.