May 17, (THEWILL) – Former Arsenal and Manchester United striker, Robin van Persie, has been named the new head coach of Dutch club Heerenveen. The 40-year-old has signed a contract committing him to the Eredivisie side for the next two seasons.
This move marks Van Persie’s first senior job in management. Prior to this appointment, Van Persie had been working as a specialist and youth coach at his former club Feyenoord, where he took charge of the under-18s side.
The Dutchman retired from playing in 2019 after a glittering career that saw him become the Netherlands men’s national team’s record goalscorer and win the Premier League title with Manchester United in 2013.
“The coaching profession is comprehensive and challenging, and I practise it with a lot of passion and pleasure,” Van Persie stated. “I am keen to continue my development, and the role of head coach fits perfectly with that ambition. I am delighted with the opportunity Heerenveen is offering me.”
Heerenveen, currently positioned 10th in the Eredivisie standings, will be Van Persie’s first test as a substantive senior coach. The club is described as having “a rich tradition and loyal supporters” by the new appointment, who views the role as “a fantastic challenge to contribute to the club’s sporting ambitions and development.”
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
