Robin van Persie’s inaugural match as Feyenoord manager concludes in a stalemate with NEC

Robin van Persie’s first match as Feyenoord’s coach ended in disappointment, with his side held to a goalless draw at home against NEC Nijmegen in the Eredivisie on Saturday.

Van Persie was appointed as Feyenoord’s new manager last weekend, following the dismissal of Danish coach Brian Priske last month.

The 41-year-old’s illustrious playing career both began and concluded at Feyenoord. He received a warm reception upon his return to De Kuip, where he had been serving as a youth coach until the end of last season, before taking on his first head coaching role at Heerenveen.

Feyenoord went to great lengths to secure Van Persie’s return, hoping to benefit from his experience as a former player for Arsenal and Manchester United, as well as his record of 50 goals in 102 appearances for the Netherlands.

The stalemate kept Feyenoord in fourth place in the league standings, missing an opportunity to leapfrog Utrecht into third.

This home draw for Feyenoord followed a surprising defeat for champions PSV Eindhoven against Go Ahead Eagles, setting the stage for Ajax Amsterdam to extend their lead to eight points if they secure victory at Almere City on Sunday.

With this match now behind them, Van Persie and his squad will shift their focus to their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash against Inter Milan, with the first leg taking place at home on Wednesday.