Former Arsenal and Manchester United striker Robin van Persie has been named the new head coach of Feyenoord.
The 41-year-old, who retired in 2019, leaves Heerenveen to return to the club where he had two spells as a player, making 122 appearances and scoring 46 goals.
Van Persie previously served as an assistant coach at Feyenoord under Dick Advocaat and worked with the youth teams before taking charge of Heerenveen in May 2023. He departs with the club ninth in the Eredivisie, winning seven of his 23 games.
Signing a contract until 2027, Van Persie will be assisted by Rene Hake, formerly part of Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff at Manchester United.
“Everyone knows how special my bond with Feyenoord is,” Van Persie said. “I look forward to working with this talented group of players and a strong staff.”
Feyenoord, currently third in the Eredivisie and 11 points behind leaders Ajax, recently dismissed Brian Priske after a poor run of one win in six league games. Priske had succeeded Arne Slot, who left for Liverpool last summer.
Van Persie, who spent eight years at Arsenal and won the FA Cup, later joined Manchester United in 2012, securing a Premier League title in his debut season.
“Appointing Robin van Persie, a true club icon, is a proud moment for us,” said Feyenoord general manager Dennis te Kloese. “He knows the club inside out and understands what it takes to succeed.”
