Robin van Persie makes Arsenal return claim amid reflections on Manchester United move

Robin van Persie. (Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)Robin van Persie. (Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)
Robin van Persie. (Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images) | Manchester United via Getty Imag
Dutch legend reflects on Arsenal departure and focuses on his coaching career.

Robin van Persie has dismissed the possibility of a future return to Arsenal, citing the lingering impact of his move to Manchester United in 2012.

The former striker, who remains a divisive figure among Arsenal supporters, acknowledged that his decision to join a direct rival has likely closed the door to any professional reunion with the north London giants.

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Speaking to Dutch outlet Sportcast, Van Persie reflected on the sensitivity surrounding his departure from Arsenal and its effect on his legacy.

“I don’t expect to work at Arsenal. I think that door is closed,” he said. “Because of my switch to Manchester United, that is my assessment. You never know in football, but that is my assessment.

“It is still sensitive for them, not for me. It is especially sensitive for the Arsenal fans.”

Van Persie enjoyed a prolific spell at Arsenal, scoring 132 goals and providing 56 assists in 278 appearances during his eight-year stay. However, his move to United in search of silverware, where he won the Premier League in his debut season, left a bitter taste for many Gunners supporters.

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Now 41, the Dutchman is focused on his coaching career at SC Heerenveen in the Eredivisie and is not looking too far ahead.

“I have learned that planning so far ahead makes no sense at all. I don’t want that either. I mainly live in the here and now.

“I really enjoy it here, and I am very proud to be the coach of SC Heerenveen. I feel very welcome within the club and among the fans,” he added.

Meanwhile, LondonWorld understands that Van Persie’s former Dutch international teammate Ruud van Nistelrooy is among the favourites to become the next head coach of Championship side Coventry City.

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