Feyenoord Part Ways with Robin van Persie Following End-of-Season Review

Feyenoord have parted company with head coach Robin van Persie following an internal review led by newly appointed Sporting Director Dévy Rigaux.

Rigaux, who recently arrived at the Rotterdam club after his spell with Club Brugge, had indicated that he would conduct a full assessment of the previous campaign before making decisions regarding the club’s sporting direction. Following that evaluation, Feyenoord have decided not to continue with Van Persie as head coach for next season.

The decision brings an end to Van Persie’s tenure after just over a year in charge of the Dutch side.

The former Arsenal and Manchester United striker oversaw a campaign that ultimately ended with Feyenoord securing second place in the Eredivisie. However, expectations had been considerably higher after an encouraging start to the season.

Strong Opening Fails to Deliver Title Challenge

Under Van Persie, Feyenoord initially appeared capable of mounting a serious title challenge against PSV and looked well placed to compete at the top of Dutch football.

However, despite their promising early form, results declined as the campaign progressed and the club eventually lost ground in the title race, finishing the season some distance behind the eventual pace-setters.

The disappointing conclusion appears to have influenced the club’s decision to pursue a different direction ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

Rigaux will now begin the search for a new head coach to lead Feyenoord into the new season and attempt to restore a stronger challenge for domestic honours.

Van Persie Expected to Remain in Demand

Despite his departure, Van Persie is unlikely to be short of opportunities should he choose to continue coaching in the Netherlands.

Before taking charge at Feyenoord, the former Netherlands international earned positive recognition for his work at Heerenveen and remains highly regarded within Dutch football circles.

His experience both as a player at the highest level and as an emerging manager could make him an attractive option for clubs seeking a long-term project.

Attention now turns to Feyenoord’s next appointment as the club begins preparations for the upcoming season under a new sporting structure.