Farewell to a Legend: Van Persie’s Emotional Response to Ferguson’s Exit

Robin van Persie was deeply affected upon learning about Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure as the manager of Manchester United in 2013, almost being brought to tears. Despite having joined the club from Arsenal just a year earlier and enjoying a remarkable debut season under Ferguson’s guidance, the news of the manager’s exit left Van Persie emotionally shaken. United legend Rio Ferdinand revealed the impact on the team describing a somber atmosphere at the Carrington training complex.

Van Persie, who had adored Ferguson was particularly affected with Ferdinand recalling the striker being “gobsmacked” by the revelation. Van Persie himself had previously inquired about Ferguson’s long-term plans when negotiating his move from Arsenal but did not disclose whether he would have made the switch had he known about the manager’s imminent departure. Despite the shock of Ferguson’s exit, Van Persie expressed that he doesn’t feel let down by the legendary manager who played a significant role in his decision to join Manchester United.