Robin van Persie, the former Arsenal and Manchester United forward, is reportedly on the verge of securing his first managerial role at Eredivisie club Heerenveen. According to reports in Holland, the 40-year-old is in advanced talks with the club and is expected to be announced as their new manager soon.
Heerenveen initially had their sights set on appointing former Ajax boss Maurice Steijn as their new manager. However, they turned their attention to Van Persie after his agent contacted the club to express his interest in the vacant position. Van Persie, who is currently coaching Feyenoord’s U18s team, made a good impression during his first interview with Heerenveen.
While Van Persie’s decision to take on a first-team managerial role might disappoint Feyenoord, his current club, it reflects his ambition to move up the coaching ladder. Feyenoord had hoped that he would soon make the step up to coaching their U21s team. However, Van Persie’s desire to manage a first-team and his impending completion of his UEFA coaching license have led him to pursue the opportunity at Heerenveen.
Before finalizing the deal, Van Persie is set to hold a meeting with Heerenveen’s sporting director, Ferry de Haan, to discuss his budget and the possibility of bringing in his own coaching staff. Interestingly, Van Persie and De Haan have a history together, having played alongside each other at Feyenoord when the club won the UEFA Cup in 2002.
Van Persie’s playing career is highlighted by his successful spells at Arsenal and Manchester United in the Premier League. With 144 goals in 280 appearances, he established himself as one of the league’s top forwards. He won consecutive golden boots in the 2011-12 and 2012-13 seasons and also clinched a league title with Manchester United following a controversial move from Arsenal.
If Van Persie secures the Heerenveen managerial role, it will mark an exciting new chapter in his post-playing career. As a club legend, he will bring his wealth of experience and expertise to guide Heerenveen as they aim to improve their position in the Eredivisie, where they currently sit 10th. With his impending UEFA coaching license, Van Persie will have the necessary qualifications to manage in the Dutch league and make a significant impact in his new role.