My Man United transfer closed the door on returning to rival club

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Former Manchester United striker Robin van Persie has revealed that he doesn't see a return to Arsenal in his future coaching career. The Dutchman, who netted 132 goals in 278 appearances during his eight-year stint in North London, made a controversial £24million switch to Manchester United in 2015.

This move significantly tarnished his reputation among the Gunners' supporters, especially as he played a key role in securing the Premier League title for United in his debut season at Old Trafford. Despite being part of the Arsenal team that clinched the 2005 FA Cup final, Van Persie's contribution was minimal compared to his pivotal role in United's Premier League triumph eight years later, where he scored 26 goals.

After spending only three seasons in Manchester, Van Persie moved on to Fenerbahce before ending his professional football career at childhood club Feyenoord in 2019. Post-retirement, the 41-year-old ventured into coaching and served as an assistant to Dick Advocaat at Feyenoord, after initially helping the club's strikers in an unofficial capacity.

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The ex-Manchester United striker has now opened up about his coaching journey and the possibility of a return to Arsenal. "Well, I don't expect to work at Arsenal. I think that door is closed," he explained on Sportcast, as reported by FEAN Online and Sport Witness.

"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."

Van Persie, who took over as head coach of Heerenveen last May, 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.

"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. I also think that is important that you feel welcome."

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