Van Persie reveals thoughts of potential Arsenal return after leaving for 12 yrs

Robin van Persie was on his way to becoming an Arsenal legend after scoring 132 goals in 278 appearances for the London club over eight seasons from 2004 to 2012.

But his relationship with Gunners fans was damaged at the start of the 2012-13 season when he decided to join rivals Manchester United.

Van Persie went on to score 58 goals in 105 games for United and win the Premier League title at Old Trafford.

However, he lost the love and respect of many Arsenal supporters in the process.

Van Persie retired from playing in 2019 and recently embarked on a new career in management.

The 41-year-old has been head coach of Eredivisie team SC Heerenveen since July and is looking forward to a long and successful career in the dugout.

However, Van Persie does not believe he will ever get the chance to coach Arsenal.

When recently asked about a possible return to the Emirates Stadium, he replied: 'I don't expect to join Arsenal. I think that door is closed.

'Because of my move to Manchester United, that is my assessment. In football you never know, but that's my guess.

'It is still sensitive for them, but not for me. It is particularly sensitive for the Arsenal fans.'

He added, “I've learned that planning so far is pointless at all. I don't want that either.

'I mainly live in the here and now. I really enjoy it here and am very proud to be the coach of SC Heerenveen.

'I feel very welcome within the club and among the fans. I also think it's important that you feel welcome.'

Van Persie has managed thirteen games since his appointment at Heerenveen in the summer.

He has five wins, two draws and six defeats to his name so far.

Heerenveen finished eleventh in the Eredivisie last season and is currently twelfth after twelve league games this season.

Van Persie's next match is away at Feyenoord, where he played two spells as a player.

Arsenal has been managed by Mikel Arteta since December 2019.

Arteta will oversee his 250th match in the role next weekend when the Gunners host Nottingham Forest.

Forest are currently level with Arsenal, who are nine behind Premier League leaders Liverpool.