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Robin Van Persie

~Van Persie

Aug 06' 1983

Nationality
Netherlands

The Exhilarating Story...

Born on August 6, 1983, in Rotterdam, Netherlands, Robin van Persie grew up in a household rooted in creativity. His parents, Bob and José van Persie, were both artists, fostering a unique environment for young Robin. However, while their artistic careers provided a distinct background, Robin’s early life was filled with challenges. He frequently found himself in trouble at school, and with his rebellious spirit and boundless energy, it wasn’t easy for him to focus. But behind that energy was a passion for football that would eventually lead him to greatness. Robin’s love for football became a guiding force in his life, helping him channel his restless energy into something positive. As he continued to face difficulties in school, his mother, José, played a significant role in steering him toward a disciplined path, encouraging him to pursue his passion for football wholeheartedly. At a young age, Robin joined the Excelsior youth team, where his talents started to shine, despite his struggles with focus and direction. His father, Bob, while an artist, also gave him the freedom to pursue his interests, allowing Robin to develop his own identity and discipline in his journey. Robin’s potential was quickly recognized, and he was recruited by Feyenoord's youth academy. At just 17, he made his debut in the Dutch Eredivisie, but his career faced a significant setback as he struggled with injuries and clashes with management. His early days were marked by conflicts with coaches due to his rebellious attitude, leading many to question if he had the discipline needed to succeed in the professional football world. However, it was during these tough times that Robin found a mentor in Bert van Marwijk, Feyenoord's head coach at the time. Van Marwijk’s guidance and mentorship became instrumental in teaching Robin the importance of self-discipline, patience, and resilience. Bert’s faith in his abilities encouraged Robin to develop a more focused approach toward the game, a transformation that not only improved his relationship with the sport but also with his teammates. In 2004, Robin van Persie moved to Arsenal, where he was taken under the wing of the legendary manager Arsène Wenger. Wenger’s trust in his skills and his patient mentorship helped Robin mature, both as a player and as an individual. This phase of his career was crucial, as Robin learned to cope with injuries, refine his gameplay, and develop into a more versatile forward. Wenger’s impact was profound, as Robin often cited him as one of the greatest influences on his football journey. After years of dedication, Robin became one of Arsenal’s most prized players, scoring consistently and inspiring millions with his tenacity and skill. In 2012, he made the move to Manchester United, where he continued to make waves, famously leading United to a Premier League title in his debut season. His iconic goal against Aston Villa in April 2013 remains one of the most memorable moments in Premier League history, cementing his status as a football legend. Robin’s career was filled with recurring injuries, which often slowed his progress, but his determination kept him on track. Rather than giving up, he spent countless hours in recovery, building physical and mental resilience. The support of his family, especially his wife, Bouchra, and his children, became a significant source of strength, pushing him to overcome each obstacle and continue his pursuit of excellence. Even after retiring in 2019, Robin stayed connected to football by joining Feyenoord's coaching staff, where he began sharing his journey and experiences with the next generation of players, focusing on nurturing talent and teaching resilience. Robin van Persie is celebrated not only for his career but also for his role as a mentor to young footballers. His wisdom, combined with his understanding of the struggles young athletes face, has made him an inspiring figure in the world of sports. He remains active in Dutch football, contributing to Feyenoord’s coaching team, where he instills his disciplined, skill-driven approach in aspiring players. Robin van Persie’s journey from a rebellious youth to one of the most iconic footballers of his generation is a powerful reminder of the impact of resilience, family support, and mentorship. His story inspires those facing challenges, proving that with determination, self-discipline, and the right guidance, it is possible to turn dreams into reality. Robin’s life serves as a beacon of hope and motivation for athletes worldwide, emphasizing that greatness often emerges from adversity.

It's not about where you start; it's about where you're willing to go to achieve your dreams.

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Career

Last updated: Nov 04' 2024
Club

Feyenoord

  • Career: 2001-2004
  • Total Appearances: 61
  • Total Goals: 14
Club

Arsenal

  • Career: 2004-2012
  • Total Appearances: 194
  • Total Goals: 96
Club

Manchester United

  • Career: 2012-2015
  • Total Appearances: 86
  • Total Goals: 48
Club

Fenerbahçe

  • Career: 2015-2018
  • Total Appearances: 57
  • Total Goals: 25
Club

Feyenoord

  • Career: 2018-2019
  • Total Appearances: 37
  • Total Goals: 21
Club

Netherlands Football Team

  • Career: 2005-2017
  • Total Appearances: 102
  • Total Goals: 50
Club

Heerenveen

  • Career: 2024-Present
  • Total Games: 11
  • Wins: 4
  • Losses: 5
  • Win Rate: 36%

Achievements

Feyenoord

  • 1x UEFA Cup
  • 1x KNVB Cup
  • 1x Johan Cruyff Shield
  • 1x KNVB Cup Runner-up

Arsenal

  • 1x FA Cup
  • 1x FA Community Shield
  • 1x UEFA Champions League Runner-up
  • 1x Football League Cup Runner-up

Manchester United

  • 1x Premier League
  • 1x FA Community Shield

Fenerbahçe

  • 1x Turkish Cup Runner-up

Netherlands

  • 1x FIFA World Cup Runner-up
  • 1x FIFA World Cup Third Place

Individual

  • 1x Dutch Football Talent of the Year
  • 1x KNVB Best Young Talent Award
  • 5x Premier League Player of the Month
  • 5x BBC Goal of the Month
  • 1x Premier League Top Assists (shared)
  • 3x Premier League Golden Boot Landmark Award
  • 2x Premier League Golden Boot
  • 1x PFA Players' Player of the Year
  • 1x PFA Fans' Player of the Year
  • 2x PFA Team of the Year
  • 1x FWA Footballer of the Year
  • 1x ESM Team of the Year
  • 2x Arsenal Player of the Season
  • 1x Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year
  • 1x BBC Goal of the Season
  • 3x FIFA FIFPro World XI shortlist
  • 1x FIFA FIFPro World XI 2nd team
  • 1x Premier League 100 Club's Greatest Goal Award
  • 1x Manchester United Goal of the Season
  • 1x 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification top goalscorer
  • 1x Sport in Beeld-Prijs (Moment of the Year)
  • 1x Eredivisie Player of the Month
  • 1x Telegraaf Footballer of the Year Gala Oeuvreprijs (Lifetime Achievement)

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