AMSTERDAM - Robin van Persie has been named Heerenveen head coach – the former Manchester United and Arsenal striker’s first managerial post.

The 40-year-old hung up his boots after in 2019 after a spell back with boyhood club Feyenoord, where the ex-Netherlands international eventually moved into coaching.

Van Persie has spent this season in charge of the Dutch side’s Under-18s and now takes his first post as manager at Eredivisie outfit Heerenveen.

“I would like to continue my development and the role of head coach fits in perfectly with that goal,” the former striker said. “I am therefore pleased with the opportunity that Heerenveen offers me.

“Heerenveen is a very nice Eredivisie club with a rich tradition and loyal supporters.

“It is a fantastic challenge to contribute to the sporting ambitions and development of the club as head coach.”

Robin Van Persie is one of the finest strikers that had ever played for the English Premier League and indeed in the world of football.

He is married to a Moroccan lady Bouchra Elbali and the couple have two children.

The 40-year-old ex-Netherlands captain is one of the few celebrities who has never be linked with any controversial affairs or extramarital issues despite being known with only one woman since 2004.