Heerenveen is on the verge of presenting Robin van Persie as their new head coach in the Eredivisie. The Frisian club’s management and the 40-year-old all-time top scorer for the Netherlands have held several discussions and both parties aim to reach an agreement soon.

Initially, Heerenveen targeted former Ajax coach Maurice Steijn and departing VVV-Venlo coach Rick Kruys to succeed the outgoing Kees van Wonderen at the Abe Lenstra Stadium. However, Peter de Waal, representing the SEG agency, approached Heerenveen, revealing Van Persie’s intention to leave Feyenoord’s youth academy coaching position for a head coaching role elsewhere. Following an impressive initial meeting with Van Persie, Heerenveen’s focus shifted entirely to the renowned Rotterdam native.

Feyenoord hoped to retain Van Persie, offering him a role as a youth coach with the potential to transition from the U-18 to the U-21 team. However, the former Feyenoord, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Fenerbahçe player declined Feyenoord’s offer.

Van Persie, who is close to obtaining the highest coaching diploma, intends to bring along one assistant coach to Heerenveen and is yet to discuss the financial aspect with Heerenveen’s director, Ferry de Haan, with whom he won the UEFA Cup against Borussia Dortmund while playing for Feyenoord in 2002.