Robin van Persie was poised to become an Arsenal legend, having netted 132 goals in 278 appearances for the London club over eight seasons, from 2004 to 2012.
However, his relationship with Gunners fans soured at the beginning of the 2012-13 season when he chose to join their rivals, Manchester United.
Van Persie went on to score 58 goals in 105 appearances for Manchester United, and he also secured a Premier League title during his time at Old Trafford.
However, in doing so, he lost the love and respect of many Arsenal supporters. Van Persie retired from playing in 2019 and has recently embarked on a new career in management.
The 41-year-old he has taken on the role of head coach at Eredivisie club SC Heerenveen since July and is aspiring to a lengthy and successful career in management.
Despite this, Van Persie doubts that he will ever have the opportunity to manage Arsenal.
Van Persie answers on whether he could yet manage Arsenal in the future
When asked recently about a potential return to the Emirates Stadium, he responded, “I don’t expect to work at Arsenal. I think that door is closed.”
“Because of my switch to Manchester United, that is my assessment. You never know in football, but that is my assessment.”
“It is still sensitive for them, not for me. It is especially sensitive for the Arsenal fans.”
He added: “I have learned that planning so far ahead makes no sense at all. I don’t want that either.”
“I mainly live in the here and now. I really enjoy it here and I am very proud to be the coach of SC Heerenveen.”
“I feel I feel very welcome within the club and among the fans. I also think that is important that you feel welcome.”
Since being appointed by Heerenveen in the summer, Van Persie has managed 13 games.
So far, he has overseen five wins, two draws, and six losses.
Heerenveen placed 11th in the Eredivisie last season and are currently in 12th position after 12 rounds of fixtures this season.
Van Persie’s next match will be an away game at Feyenoord, where he had two separate stints as a player.
Mikel Arteta has been in charge of Arsenal since December 2019.
Next weekend, Arteta will manage his 250th game in charge when the Gunners face Nottingham Forest at home.
Forest are currently tied on points with Arsenal, who are nine points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool.
