Robin van Persie rules out Arsenal return as Dutchman says bridges were burned with ‘still sensitive’ Man Utd switch

During his tenure as a player, Van Persie dazzled fans at Arsenal from 2004 to 2012, before making the high-profile switch to Old Trafford - a transfer that turned him into a villain to the Gooners. Although it has been more than a decade since the infamous transfer, the former striker believes that it is still a "sensitive" topic in North London and it will be better if he kept that chapter closed for good.

Now 41 years old, the Dutch football icon transitioned to management in 2024, taking charge of Eredivisie club SC Heerenveen. Speaking about his future aspirations, Van Persie candidly acknowledged that returning to Arsenal in a coaching role is improbable.

"I don’t expect to work at Arsenal. I think that door is closed," he admitted in an interview with Sportcast. "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. 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 I feel very welcome within the club and among the fans. I also think that is important that you feel welcome."

Van Persie enjoyed remarkable success during his time with Arsenal, scoring 132 goals and providing 56 assists in 278 appearances. He played a crucial role in securing the FA Cup for the club in 2005, marking a memorable chapter in his career. However, his decision to join Manchester United in 2012 altered his relationship with Arsenal fans. Nonetheless, at United, Van Persie continued to shine, contributing 58 goals and 15 assists in 105 games and led the Red Devils to the Premier League title in 2013.

For many Arsenal supporters, Van Persie’s legacy remains a complex one. His years of brilliance at the Emirates are often overshadowed by his controversial departure. However, his achievements as a player are undeniable, and his current stint as a coach hints at a promising future in football management - just not one likely to involve Arsenal.