According to Flashscore, Robin van Persie discussed his playing career and coaching work in an interview. Notably, the former forward did not mention his dismissal from Feyenoord last summer.

Van Persie was first asked which football philosophies impressed him most. He stated: "In football, different ideas fascinate me. As a player, I focused more on some basic principles; my coaching experience taught me to view the game from a more comprehensive perspective. Now, I appreciate both teams that rely on quick transitions and attack with extreme speed, and teams that can control the game through possession and organization."

Subsequently, the currently unemployed coach was asked about his past statement that "football is an art." Van Persie recalled the most brilliant goals of his career: "Of course, the header against Spain. At club level, the volley for Arsenal against Charlton Athletic, and for Manchester United against Aston Villa." The volley against Aston Villa occurred in 2013 during Manchester United's home title-winning match.

Van Persie continued: "But for me, these moments are not the most important. What happened before these moments is more crucial, because everyone only sees what happens on the pitch. Most people only see the highlights, but in my opinion, what truly matters is the hard training, the effort put in, and what was done when no one was watching. These are more important than a single goal."

During his time in the Premier League with Arsenal and Manchester United, the former player encountered many top defenders. Van Persie, from Rotterdam, almost always found it tough playing against four of them. He said: "John Terry, Thiago Silva, Rio Ferdinand, and Nemanja Vidic were the most difficult players I faced."

Van Persie also experienced the less glamorous side of a professional footballer's life. He suffered numerous injuries but always managed to return. Van Persie stated: "To get through certain phases, you need strength, patience, and most importantly, the ability to get back on your feet without giving up. I value these moments very much, even more than the trophies I won and the memories of those who accompanied me."

Van Persie said: "I cherish these things because when you are in good form and everything is going well, it's not difficult to have people around you. Everyone is happy for you then. But when you are going through difficulties, who will be there? Who will still stand by you at that time?"

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