Biography
Who is Robin van Persie?
Early life
Robin van Persie was born in Rotterdam, Netherlands, on August 6, 1983. He grew up in the Netherlands and began playing football in his youth. He joined the youth squad of local side Excelsior when he was five years old. After falling out with the coaching staff over his attitude, he moved to Feyenoord at the age of sixteen. An injury crisis at Feyenoord allowed him to be promoted to the first team quickly.
He made his senior debut for Feyenoord during the 2001 to 2002 season. This campaign culminated with a victory in the 2002 UEFA Cup final against Borussia Dortmund. Following this success, he signed a professional contract with the club. However, persistent clashes with manager Bert van Marwijk led to disciplinary issues and time spent on the bench or in the reserve squad.
Career highlights
In May 2004, Robin joined English club Arsenal for a fee of 2.75 million pounds. Manager Arsene Wenger converted him from a left winger into a centre forward. During his time with Arsenal, he scored numerous goals and eventually became club captain. In the 2011 to 2012 season, he won the Premier League Golden Boot and was awarded the PFA Players Player of the Year and FWA Footballer of the Year.
Seeking a new direction, he transferred to rivals Manchester United in July 2012. He played an integral role in helping United win the Premier League title during his debut season, earning his second consecutive Golden Boot. Later in his career, he played for Fenerbahce in Turkey before returning to Feyenoord on a free transfer. He helped his boyhood team win the Dutch Cup before retiring from playing.
International career and coaching
Robin represented the Netherlands at various youth levels, including under-17, under-19, and under-21. He made his senior international debut in 2005 in a friendly match against Romania. He scored his first senior international goal a month later against Finland. He recorded over 100 caps and scored 50 goals for his country, serving as team captain from 2013 to 2015.
He represented the Netherlands at the 2006, 2010, and 2014 FIFA World Cups, as well as the 2008 and 2012 UEFA European Championships. His team reached the final in 2010 and won the bronze medal in 2014. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into coaching. He worked at Heerenveen before being appointed head coach at Feyenoord in February 2025.
Personal life and physical details
Robin van Persie stands at a height of 183 centimetres. He comes from the Netherlands and holds Dutch nationality. His family includes his child named Shaqueel van Persie. Throughout his life and career, he has been based in various football hubs across Europe, including England, Turkey, and his home country of the Netherlands.
His personal life has largely centered around his professional athletic pursuits. From his early days in Rotterdam to his extensive career across multiple leagues, football has remained a central part of his life. Following his playing days, he continued his involvement in the sport through management roles.
Birthday and age
Robin van Persie was born on August 6, 1983, which makes Robin 43 years old today. That birthday falls under the Leo sign. Robin shares the date with 28 other famous people.
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