The name Robin van Persie is once again linked with Manchester United, but this time not as a player. The Dutch striker-turned-coach is being considered as a potential future manager of the Red Devils, earning strong support from none other than Ruud Gullit, the legendary Dutch footballer and former Ballon d’Or winner.
Gullit believes that Van Persie possesses the qualities to lead one of England’s most iconic clubs, envisioning a future where the former striker returns to Old Trafford as head coach.
Van Persie’s Storied Playing Career
Robin van Persie is widely recognized as one of the finest strikers of his generation. He rose to prominence at Arsenal, joining the Gunners in 2004 on the recommendation of Arsène Wenger. Van Persie quickly became the team’s main goal threat, consistently delivering in the Premier League.
During his eight seasons at Arsenal, Van Persie scored 132 goals in 278 appearances. His remarkable scoring record includes the most goals in a single Premier League season for the club and the most goals in a calendar year. Despite his success on the pitch, tensions with Arsenal’s management eventually led to a controversial transfer to Manchester United in 2012—a move that would prove pivotal for his career.
At Old Trafford, Van Persie experienced three highly productive seasons, including a standout debut campaign that cemented his legacy at the club.
An Impactful Start at Manchester United
In his first season with United, Van Persie scored 30 goals across all competitions, playing a crucial role in Sir Alex Ferguson’s final Premier League triumph. His exceptional performances earned him the Golden Boot for the second consecutive year, and his contributions remain fondly remembered by fans at Old Trafford.
Van Persie’s blend of experience, intelligence, and leadership on the field made him a key figure in United’s last league-winning squad, leaving a lasting impression that continues to resonate with supporters.
Developing Coaching Credentials
Since retiring from professional football, Van Persie has steadily developed his coaching career. Ruud Gullit sees this evolution as a sign that the former striker is ready for top-level management. Gullit has publicly expressed his hope that Van Persie could one day manage Manchester United.
“This would be incredible if Robin van Persie becomes Manchester United’s manager in the future,” Gullit told Gambling Insider. “I genuinely hope it happens one day.”
Patience and Time Are Essential
Gullit acknowledges that Van Persie faces high expectations as a coach due to his stellar playing career. Currently managing Feyenoord, Van Persie has experienced some challenges in adapting to the pressures of management.
“Robin is a fantastic coach, but he’s facing some difficulties at Feyenoord,” Gullit explained. “Expectations are very high because of his playing career, which puts him under much more scrutiny than other coaches in the Eredivisie.”
Gullit emphasizes the importance of giving Van Persie time to adjust and demonstrate his coaching abilities. “I hope he’s given the opportunity to prove how good he really is. Look at Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United—he was given time, and he turned out to be an extraordinary manager,” Gullit added.
“Eventually, I think it would be fantastic if Robin were to manage at Old Trafford,” Gullit concluded.
Manchester United’s Managerial Search
Van Persie, now 43 years old, began his managerial career with Eredivisie club Heerenveen before moving to Feyenoord in early 2025. Meanwhile, Manchester United continues its search for a permanent manager following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim last month.
Interim manager Michael Carrick has overseen a positive start, guiding the team to four consecutive wins that have brought United back into Champions League contention. Most recently, United defeated a ten-man Tottenham Hotspur 2-0, showcasing the team’s resilience under Carrick’s guidance.
United will resume Premier League action on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, against West Ham United, a side fighting to escape relegation. The last meeting between these two teams ended in a 1-1 draw, one of the final matches under Ruben Amorim’s tenure.
Looking Ahead
The prospect of Van Persie returning to Manchester United as a manager excites fans and pundits alike. With his deep understanding of the game, leadership experience, and a legacy as one of the club’s legendary goal-scorers, Van Persie could provide both tactical acumen and inspiration to a new generation of Red Devils.
While patience is essential as he continues to hone his coaching skills at Feyenoord, Ruud Gullit’s endorsement underscores the belief that Van Persie’s future at Old Trafford may be more than just a dream—it could be a realistic chapter in Manchester United’s storied history.
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