Robin van Persie avoids picking sides between Arsenal and Manchester United, staying neutral ahead of their Premier League showdown.
Robin van Persie keeps fans guessing about his Arsenal vs Manchester United loyalties as he diplomatically dodges questions before the big match.
Van Persie has once again stirred conversation by refusing to choose sides between Arsenal and Manchester United—two clubs that defined his Premier League career. Ahead of this weekend’s highly anticipated showdown between his former teams, Van Persie sat down with ESPN for a candid interview that reignited the debate over where his true loyalties lie.
Van Persie Dodges Loyalty Questions with Grace
During the interview, Van Persie was asked to choose between former teammates Wayne Rooney and Thierry Henry. True to form, he responded, “Pass because they’re both so different and very good,” avoiding favoritism. He maintained the same neutral tone when asked to pick between legendary managers Arsene Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson, replying, “Definitely both.”
Even when pressed to choose between Arsenal and Manchester United, Van Persie declined to take a side. His diplomatic approach extended to rival clubs as well—he visibly grimaced when asked to choose between Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur, ultimately passing on the question.

A Controversial Yet Impactful Transfer
Van Persie’s 2012 move from Arsenal to Manchester United remains one of the most talked-about transfers in Premier League history. The switch angered many Arsenal fans, but it paid off for United, as Van Persie played a crucial role in securing the league title during his debut season at Old Trafford.
Interestingly, former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger later revealed that Van Persie had expressed interest in returning to North London. However, the club’s focus on youth development made the move impossible.
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Despite the controversy, Van Persie’s legacy at both clubs is undeniable. He scored 132 goals in 278 appearances for Arsenal and lifted the Premier League trophy with Manchester United in his first season.
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