“It is still sensitive for them, not for me” - Robin van Persie on returning to Arsenal in future after controversial Manchester United move

Former Manchester United striker Robin van Persie has admitted that there is no chance of him returning to Arsenal in any role. He believes that the bridge was burnt with the Gunners following his switch to Old Trafford.

Van Persie was talking to Sportcast when he was quizzed if there was a chance of working with Arsenal. He said that it was unlikely because of his move to Manchester United and believed that the fans would be very sensitive if he rejoined the club. He said (via Sport Witness):

"Well, I don't expect to work at Arsenal. I think that door is closed. Because of my switch to Man 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. 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 I feel very welcome within the club and among the fans. I also think that is important that you feel welcome."

Robin van Persie is currently the manager of SC Heerenveen, a club in Eredivisie. They are 12th in the league with 14 points from 12 matches – 19 behind leaders PSV.

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Why did Robin van Persie leave Arsenal for Manchester United?

Robin van Persie said on TNT Sports in 2019 that Arsenal did not offer him a new deal. He claims that that his dream was always to win the Premier League title and the option was to join Manchester United or Manchester United.

The Dutchman said about his decision to join the Red Devils in 2012 after eight years at Arsenal (via Eurosport):

"One of the main facts was that Arsenal got tired of me, that was the starting point - they didn't offer me a new deal. Then you have a look around, I was ambitious, I still wanted to win the league. That is life.

"I ended up having three options. One option abroad disappeared quickly. Then it was City or Man United. What people don't know, during the transfer, loads of things are happening behind the scenes. You have to take a lot on and make a choice based on what your targets are but also deal with the facts."

Robin van Persie played 105 matches for Manchester United and scored 58 times, registering 15 assists. He won the Premier League title in his first season with the club. That was Sir Alex Ferguson's final season and it remains the last title for the Red Devils.