Netherlands: Feyenoord sacks Robin van Persie

Feyenoord Rotterdam has decided to part ways with its head coach, Robin van Persie, despite finishing second in the league and securing qualification for the next edition of the Champions League. The decision was made by the club's new management, aiming to inject fresh energy into their sporting project.

Robin van Persie is no longer the manager of Feyenoord. The club has decided to terminate his role as head coach. The former Dutch football legend was under contract with the club until June 2027. However, after a thorough review of the past season, the new leadership, headed by Dévy Rigaux and Robert Eenhoorn, chose to end his tenure with immediate effect.

A season deemed insufficient

Appointed to the bench in February 2025 to succeed Brian Priske, Van Persie oversaw 58 matches. Under his guidance, Feyenoord finished second in the Eredivisie, clinching a spot in the 2026-2027 Champions League.

However, a 19-point gap with champions PSV Eindhoven, coupled with persistent inconsistency throughout the campaign, weighed heavily in the assessment of his work. Between October and January, the team won only three out of fourteen matches, quickly undermining its domestic ambitions.

Mounting pressure around the coach

In recent months, several supporter groups voiced their dissatisfaction with the former striker. Banners criticizing his management were displayed in the stands, illustrating a growing sense of distrust surrounding the Dutch coach.

Neither the club nor the coach has released an official statement yet, but all signs point to an announcement of their split in the coming hours. Feyenoord has already started searching for its next manager ahead of the 2026-2027 season.

Nouya M'toama

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Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.