Robin van Persie hired as coach of Dutch club Heerenveen

HEERENVEEN, Netherlands (AP) — 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.

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