I’m sure that Arsenal fans are watching Robin Van Persie’s situation over at Manchester United with great interest. After all, he was the man who broke their collective heart two summers ago, when he left the Emirates in search of silverware.
Having spent much of his career warming the Gunners’ bench, the Dutchman opted to run down his contract and force a move away from the club after a single good season.
The means by which he did this were particularly galling. His ‘letter to the fans’ revealed his egoism and the fact that he was willing to move to a direct rival hurt even more.
As a result, most Arsenal fans hoped that he would flop at Manchester United. Unfortunately for them, he excelled, scoring 30 goals in 48 games and leading the club to the Premier League title. The fact that Arsenal themselves struggled for the majority of last season rubbed further salt in the wound.
But those who remain bitter must be enjoying this season. Yes, the Dutchman has scored 14 goals in 20 games, but he’s also been a part of a team that has been falling apart at the seams.
Sir Alex Ferguson has left and David Moyes does not look like a worthy replacement. His tactics are overly cautious, his transfer policies look misguided and the players look like they’ve had all the belief sapped out of them.
They’re currently sixth in the Premier League season and have no chance of competing for the title. They’re down and out in Europe and they’re out of the Cup competitions. What’s left to play for?
United’s poor form has been a source of great frustration for Robin Van Persie. If he’s not complaining about other players being in his zones, he’s showing his discontentment at being substituted in the middle of his club’s easy win over West Brom.
At 30-years-old, RVP resembles more of a stroppy child than a well adjusted professional footballer. This has all led to The Metro claiming that the Dutchman is keen on a move back to Arsenal in the summer. The source even quotes that the Emirates is ‘his first-choice destination’.
Things sure change quickly in football, don’t they? This would be one of the most remarkable turnarounds in living memory.
Whether Arsenal fans would be happy to have him back is uncertain, but it’s clear that he could provide the Gunners with some much needed firepower. He’s still an unstoppable force in front of goal and could help fire Arsene Wenger’s side to Premier League glory next season.
Arsenal signing Robin Van Persie would also weaken Manchester United, a fact that may provide motivation for Arsene Wenger. Either way, it’ll be fascinating to see this situation play out.
