Robin van Persie hired as coach of Dutch club Heerenveen
FILE- Robin van Persie warms up ahead of the Europa League Group A soccer match between Manchester United and Fenerbahce at Old Trafford stadium in Manchester, England, Thursday Oct. 20, 2016. Former Arsenal striker Robin van Persie has landed his first topflight head coaching job. He was hired by Dutch club Heerenveen. The 40-year-old Van Persie is the Netherlands men’s team all-time top scorer. Credit: AP/Dave Thompson
HEERENVEEN, Netherlands — Former Arsenal striker Robin van Persie landed his first head coaching job Friday when he was hired by Dutch top-flight club Heerenveen.
The 40-year-old Van Persie, who is the Netherlands men's team all-time top scorer, will take over this summer on a two-year contract.
Van Persie ended his playing career in 2019 with Feyenoord, where he then took on several coaching roles, the most recent of which was leading a youth team.
He debuted in 2001 with Feyenoord before moving on to Arsenal, Manchester United, Fenerbahçe and back to the Dutch club for a final season.
Van Persie also spent time at United's training center with manager Erik ten Hag — a fellow Dutchman.
Heerenveen, located in the north of the country, plans to hold a press conference with Van Persie on Tuesday.
The mid-table Eredivisie club has one game left this season.
More New York Sports
More soccer news
