Van Persie named Feyenoord coach through 2027
Robin van Persie has been named the new head coach of Feyenoord, taking over immediately after an agreement was reached with SC Heerenveen for the transfer of the 41-year-old manager. Heerenveen had a contract with Van Persie that was set to run until the summer of 2026. At Feyenoord, Van Persie will remain in charge through 2027.
Van Persie replaces Brian Priske, who was dismissed earlier this month, and Pascal Bosschaart has served as interim coach for the past four matches.
René Hake, formerly assistant to Erik ten Hag at Manchester United and a former head coach of Go Ahead Eagles, has been brought in as Van Persie’s assistant. John de Wolf, Etienne Reijnen, and goalkeeper coach Jyri Nieminen will remain part of the coaching staff. Bosschaart will return to work with Feyenoord Under-21, while the club is in talks with Brian Pinas for a potential role within the staff.
Feyenoord's general director, Dennis te Kloese, expressed excitement about the appointment, calling Van Persie a true club icon. “We are thrilled to appoint Robin van Persie as the new head coach of Feyenoord,” te Kloese said. “Robin knows the club incredibly well and understands exactly what is needed to achieve results.”
Van Persie, the all-time top scorer for the Netherlands with 50 goals in 102 appearances, played for top clubs such as Arsenal, Manchester United, and Fenerbahçe. Te Kloese praised Van Persie’s extensive international experience and his alignment with the club’s style of play. “With his vast international experience, Robin can help the players continue to develop. His football philosophy also fits perfectly with what we envision at Feyenoord: attacking, well-structured football, combined with courage, intensity, and determination.”
Van Persie was in his first season as head coach of Heerenveen, which has had a mixed performance this season, currently sitting in ninth place in the Eredivisie. Prior to that, Van Persie had coached Feyenoord Under-19s.
Van Persie will be officially presented at Feyenoord on Monday at 3:30 p.m. He expressed his pride and honor at returning to the club. “Everyone knows how special my connection with Feyenoord is,” Van Persie said. “I’m very excited to get started with a strong coaching staff, working with the players at 1908 and then playing matches in De Kuip, supported by the Legioen, and achieving success together.”
