Robin van Persie has ruled out the possibility of a return to Arsenal, citing the lasting impact of his controversial move to Manchester United in 2012 as reported by Manchester World.
The Dutch forward, whose departure from the Gunners remains a contentious topic among many Arsenal fans, admitted that joining a direct rival has likely closed the door on any future association with the club.
“I don’t expect to work at Arsenal. I think that door is closed,” Van Persie said in an interview with Dutch outlet Sportcast.
“Because of my switch to Manchester United, that is my assessment. You never know in football, but that is my assessment.”
Van Persie’s transfer to United, which saw him win the Premier League in his first season at Old Trafford, left a bitter aftertaste for some Arsenal supporters.
However, the former striker acknowledged that while the move still stings for fans, it no longer affects him.
“It is still sensitive for them, not for me. It is especially sensitive for the Arsenal fans,” he stated
During his eight-year stint at Arsenal, Van Persie scored 132 goals and provided 56 assists in 278 appearances. Despite this, his decision to seek glory with United has kept him at odds with parts of the Gunners faithful.
Now 41, Van Persie is focused on his role as the head coach of SC Heerenveen in the Eredivisie, where he is finding fulfillment in his new career path.
He expressed contentment with his current position, saying, “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, “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."
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