Robin van Persie was present at Old Trafford for the match against Aston Villa, however not because of work under the new boss but for personal reasons.
Robin van Persie has quashed rumors of a return to Manchester United. The former MU star explained to fans why he returned to Old Trafford on Boxing Day.
Speaking to MUTV before the match, Van Persie revealed the timing of his return to Manchester was planned: “Obviously, it’s a bit of a coincidence that I’m here with my wife and friends.”
“When I looked at the fixture list, I thought I could choose that match, of course because of our common memories with Villa. It was one of the most special nights for me personally as a Manchester United player. Villa are doing well this year so this is a good game to watch.”
Van Persie was present in the Old Trafford stands to watch MU
It’s no surprise that his presence was warmly welcomed by fans after scoring 58 goals in 105 matches for the Red Devils. Van Persie admitted to feeling the warmth during his short visit.
Van Persie said: “It’s great to be back. I feel that (being part of Manchester United). Not only in the stadium but I also felt it on the streets. I was walking down Deansgate this afternoon and the love the Manchester fans showed me was amazing.”
The former Dutch striker is currently coaching the Feyenoord U18 team, the former Netherlands star’s appearance in the match against Aston Villa immediately sparked speculation that he could be part of an overhaul under Sir Jim Ratcliffe. However, the 40-year-old soon explained that he was there for emotional reasons rather than for work.
Van Persie scored a memorable hat trick against Aston Villa 10 years ago
Van Persie’s hat-trick against Aston Villa in 2012/13 secured the final Premier League title for Man United and the second of his three goals that night, a stunning left-footed volley from Wayne Rooney’s cross. That goal was engraved in the minds of Red Devils fans.
Not only Van Persie, INEOS Representative David Brailsford was also present in the Old Trafford stands. This is considered Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s right-hand man in the near future at MU.