Robin van Persie has rejected an offer to join Erik ten Hag at Manchester United to assist the head coach in his new role. The Dutch is keen to stay at Feyenoord and continue coaching there.
Erik ten Hag has listed former Manchester United star Van Persie as a potential manager to join his backroom staff at the club.
“The respect of the fans is enormous. When I came back a few years later with Fenerbahce, after winning the league with United and Sir Alex, I still got a gigantic appreciation from the people.” Van Persie said.
“Dick Advocaat, our coach at Fenerbahce, recognized that. He experienced it at Rangers in Scotland. He said to me ‘For the rest of your life you will be appreciated here [at United]’ and he was absolutely right.
Van Persie scored 58 goals in 105 appearances for The Red Devils and helped Sir Alex Ferguson’s side win the Premier League title after his controversial move from Arsenal.
The 38-year-old man has been coaching at Feyenoord since the start of the season and also took on some academy duties during his year in the Netherlands.
Though tempted by the offer, there are a few complications that could delay a potential deal to join the club.
Van Persie’s son has just signed his first contract with Feyenoord and is working with his father in the academy lineup. His daughter is also one of the biggest showjumping talents in the Netherlands, which is also a factor that Van Persie will have to take into account when he returns to England.
“My son and daughter are important right now. In London, when I played at Arsenal, we moved five times. We also lived in Manchester and Istanbul.” Van Persie said.
“All in all, we were away for almost fourteen years. But then we thought what’s good for the kids now?’ and felt a little stability would be nice.” he added.
