The more we think about the future of Robin van Persie the more we see it away from Old Trafford. Signed by Sir Alex in his last season in charge Van Persie is commonly regaded as the reason that the title went to Manchester United rather than City in 2013. His goals – all 30 of them – came with great consistency and at important times though the campaign. The Dutchman turned draws into wins and defeats into draws with some vital interventions in a rather side with a porous defence.
But since that first season RvP has struggled. Rio Ferdinand said that RvP struggled more than most with the departure of a manager seen as one of the moan reasons for the Dutchman making the controversial move in the first place.
“The person it hit more than anyone was Robin,” Said Rio
And now, 3 years on, the player looks on the periphery of the squad, despite the success he has had with Louis van Gaal at international level.
RvP is looking ever more likely to leave United
If Louis is to continue – as seems highly likely – with a 4-3-3 next season then where does RvP fit in? Rooney will surely continue up top after the mixed results of playing him elsewhere. RvP no longer has the pace or engine (he turns 32 before the new season kicks off) to play either side of the attacking 3. So, it seems to us that he will either have to accept a place on the bench or move on.
He would be a brilliant back up for Rooney but a player of this age and profile is more likely to want to play every week. And there would be in lack of suitors for his services. But he may have to go down a level from Manchester United to play every week. He has been linked with a move of late. Indeed, The Daily Mail reckons a move to Italy could be on.
Juventus and Inter Milan are among clubs showing interest in Robin van Persie’s situation at Old Trafford.
It’s a potentially ignominious end to a relationship which started so well but Van Persie can, at least count a Premier League Winner’s medal among his accolades.
We think that RvP will leave this summer. Manchester United fans: what do you think?
