Feyenoord have parted ways with head coach Robin van Persie following a disappointing campaign that saw the club finish well behind Eredivisie champions PSV Eindhoven.
The Rotterdam club announced the decision on Sunday, ending Van Persie’s tenure after a season in which Feyenoord secured second place but failed to challenge seriously for the league title.
Technical director Devy Rigaux said the decision had not been taken lightly, praising Van Persie’s commitment during his time in charge.
“Robin van Persie has given everything for the club over the past one-and-a-half years,” Rigaux said in a club statement.
“He deserves credit for guiding the team to second place and securing Champions League football for next season.”
Despite qualifying for Europe’s top club competition, Feyenoord ended the Eredivisie campaign 19 points behind PSV, prompting the club to review its sporting direction ahead of the new season.
According to Feyenoord, an internal assessment of results, performances and playing style led to the conclusion that a change in leadership was needed.
“After analysing the season, we believe it is best to begin the new campaign with a new head coach,” Rigaux added.
The club said a successor is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Feyenoord also struggled on the European stage. Their Champions League hopes were ended by Fenerbahçe in the final qualifying round, forcing them into the Europa League.
Their Europa League campaign failed to gain momentum, with Feyenoord losing six of their eight group-stage matches. Victories over SK Sturm Graz and Panathinaikos proved to be the only highlights of an otherwise disappointing European run.
Van Persie leaves with his reputation as one of Dutch football’s greatest players intact. The former striker earned more than 100 caps for the Netherlands national football team and enjoyed successful spells with Arsenal, Manchester United, Fenerbahçe and Feyenoord during an illustrious playing career.
His departure marks the start of a new chapter for Feyenoord as the club looks to close the gap on PSV and compete more strongly in Europe next season.
