The $30 million gamble on Robin van Persie

Feyenoord parted ways with manager Robin van Persie following an 18-month stint at the club, despite securing Champions League qualification.

Van Persie, a former Manchester United and Arsenal forward, returned to his boyhood club in February 2025 and achieved Champions League qualification, but departs the club after a year without silverware.

The 42-year-old oversaw 30 wins and 19 losses during his 58-match spell in charge, having been promoted to the post largely through his accomplishments with the youth set up under Dick Advocaat.

Devy Rigaux's verdict: a downward trend in points

Feyenoord's technical director Devy Rigaux explained the decision to sack Van Persie, citing a through analysis that included the development of the game delivered and the downward trend in points, both in Europe and in the Eredivisie.

'We have included the development of the game delivered and the downward trend in terms of points, both in Europe and in the Eredivisie,' Rigaux said.

'The conclusion was that it would be better to start next season with a new head coach.'

Robin van Persie's mixed legcay at Feyenoord

Van Persie had an up-and-down 18-month stint at Feyenoord, his boyhood club , and raised eyebrows earlier this season when he gave former England striker Raheem Sterling a chance to resurrect his career.

It didn't go too well,and Van Persie spent the best part of his career at Arsenal from 2004, helping them to win the FA Cup before joining Manchester United in 2012, where he won the Premier League in his first season at the club.

What's next for Robin van Persie?

It is expected that Van Persie will take stock of his options in the next few weeks, following his departure from Feyenoord.

Van Persie's future remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: his 18-month tenue at Feyenoord will be remembered as a season of silverware and sacking.