Dutchman joins Fenerbahce
Striker Robin van Persie has thanked Manchester United and Arsenal after ending his 11-year stay in the Premier League to move to Turkish side Fenerbahce.
The 31-year-old completed his transfer to Fenerbahce earlier today on a three-year contract, costing last season’s Süper Lig runners-up £4.7million.
The striker started his Premier League career with Arsenal in 2004, after moving from Dutch side Feyenoord for £2.75million and went on to win the FA Cup and Community Shield with the Gunners.
The Holland international left the Emirates for Old Trafford eight years later in what was a controversial move for £22.5million. The Dutchman got his hands on a Premier League winner’s medal while at Manchester United.
Van Persie Says Thanks
Van Persie, who netted 144 goals in 280 appearances while in England, wrote on Twitter: “After 11 great years in the Premier League, I have taken on a new challenge at Fenerbahce!
“Really excited to get started and get to know the beautiful city of Istanbul.
“Thank you to all the fans, who have supported me through the years. Thank you Arsenal and thank you Manchester United. Wish you all the best.” he tweeted.
When asked about his move from United, Van Persie admitted that he has no hard feelings about the club, and revealed he said goodbye to his team-mates before jetting off for Turkey.
No Hard Feelings
He said: “It’s part of football, it’s part of life. It was a situation where I could see it coming, if I’m really honest.”
“I had a good moment with the players the day before I came to Istanbul so that was special. Then you see that everyone really appreciated my time there, that was important for me.”
Message to the Fans
The 31-year-old then had the following statement for Fenerbahce fans: “I promise you one thing – I will do everything in my power to help Fenerbahce win as many trophies to make you happy. Let’s do it together.
“I am humbled to see so many great fans come to greet me. I can only imagine what kind of party it would be if we won the league. I hope I can share that with you.”
By Drew Darbyshire (@DarbySports)
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