Feyenoord sack Robin van Persie after season review

Feyenoord Sack Robin van Persie After Season Review

Rotterdam, 7 June 2026 – Feyenoord announced on Thursday that head coach Robin van Persie has been relieved of his duties following a comprehensive season review. The decision comes after a turbulent 2025‑26 campaign that saw the club finish 7th in the Eredivisie, miss out on European qualification, and suffer early exits in both the KNVB Cup and the UEFA Europa Conference League.

Club chairman John de Groot addressed the media at De Kuip, stating: “We are grateful for Robin’s dedication, but the results this season did not meet the standards expected at Feyenoord. After a thorough evaluation, we have decided to part ways and begin a new chapter.”

Van Persie, who took over the role in July 2024, had hoped to build on the attacking philosophy he championed as a player. However, his tenure was marred by a series of inconsistent performances, defensive frailties, and a lack of cohesion in the squad.

• League performance: 7th place with 48 points, 12 points behind the Champions League spots.
• Cup runs: Eliminated in the round of 16 of the KNVB Cup by FC Utrecht.
• European competition: Knocked out in the group stage of the Europa Conference League, finishing last in Group B.
• Key statistics: Scored 45 goals (down 8 from the previous season) while conceding 52 (up 10).

Players offered mixed reactions. Midfielder Johan Kluivert praised Van Persie’s mentorship, saying, “He taught us a lot about professionalism and attacking instincts.” In contrast, defender Marco van Gelder admitted, “We needed more balance at the back, and that wasn’t achieved.”

The club has appointed interim manager Marco van Basten, the former assistant coach, who will oversee the final two matches of the season and lead the search for a permanent replacement. Feyenoord’s sporting director, Lisa van Den Berg, confirmed that a “rigorous selection process” will begin immediately, focusing on candidates with proven European experience.

Fans took to social media to express disappointment and hope. The #FeyenoordFuture hashtag trended worldwide, with supporters urging the board to secure a manager capable of restoring the club’s historic stature.

As the summer transfer window opens, Feyenoord faces the dual challenge of rebuilding the squad and appointing a new head coach. The club’s next steps will be closely watched by rivals and pundits alike, all eager to see how Rotterdam’s most storied side will rebound from this setback.