Robin van Persie fired by Feyenoord after taking gamble on ex-Liverpool star
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Liverpool FC NewsFeaturesRobin Van PersieRobin van Persie has been fired as Feyenoord manager after less than 18 months in charge, with the former Arsenal and Manchester United striker unable to satisfy the Eredivisie club's hierarchyRobin van Persie has been fired by Feyenoord(Image: Getty Images)Former Manchester United and Arsenal striker Robin van Persie has been dismissed by Feyenoord following fewer than 18 months in charge.The Dutch club appointed Van Persie in February of last year. Despite guiding the Eredivisie outfit to third and second-place finishes across his two campaigns, the club's hierarchy deemed this insufficient.Van Persie's departure was announced in a stark statement released on Sunday.
That gamble backfired, with Sterling failing to score and registering just a single assist in his eight league appearances for Feyenoord.The statement read: "Feyenoord will begin the 2026-2027 season with a new head coach. Robin van Persie was informed of this decision today during a meeting with the club's management."The club's technical director, Devy Rigaux, added: "Robin van Persie has given everything for the club over the past 18 months.
He deserves credit for guiding the team through a challenging season and ultimately securing second place."That ensured qualification for the UEFA Champions League, which is of great importance to the club.Raheem Sterling struggled at Feyenoord(Image: Getty Images)"We conducted a thorough internal evaluation in which we looked at several factors, including the development of the team's performances and the downward trend in points collected, both in Europe and in the Eredivisie."The conclusion was that it would be better to start the new season with a new head coach."Van Persie has enjoyed three stints with Feyenoord, where he began his professional playing days. His departure in 2004 saw him join Arsenal, before subsequent moves to Manchester United and Fenerbahce, ultimately returning to Feyenoord in 2018.Following his retirement in 2019 after 18 months back at the club, he remained on the coaching staff as Dick Advocaat's assistant.His maiden managerial appointment came with Herenveen in 2024, though it proved short-lived, lasting just one campaign after managing nine victories from his opening 26 matches before departing for Feyenoord yet again.The 42-year-old will now begin the hunt for his next opportunity, having previously spent time at Manchester United under Erik ten Hag while completing his coaching qualifications.He joins a lengthy list of ex-United players who have transitioned into management.Michael Carrick is currently the Red Devils' boss after securing the position permanently.