Robin van Persie is back at Man Utd! Why legendary former striker has returned to Carrington - explained

Van Persie was spotted having dinner with United coach Erik ten Hag after their 3-0 win against West Ham on Sunday. Days later, the Red Devils have welcomed the ex-Netherlands international back to the club almost nine years since he departed.

Van Persie's return to United is due to the UEFA coaching course he is currently taking, The Athletic reports. The 40-year-old has been granted permission to watch Ten Hag's team in training and interview some of the club's coaching staff. As part of the Pro Licence course with the Dutch Football Association (KNVB), he will be at Carrington until Thursday.

Van Persie, who won the Premier League title in his three-year spell with United, is currently a youth team coach at Feyenoord. The former striker retired at the Dutch club in 2019 before becoming assistant coach while working in an academy role.

Van Persie will monitor United while they continue their preparations for the Sunday's Premier League match against Aston Villa. Ten Hag's team are currently unbeaten in five matches, having won four and drawn one of those.