Heerenveen head coach Robin van Persie reflected on his team’s heavy 9-1 loss to AZ Alkmaar, comparing it to the famous 8-2 defeat he experienced with Arsenal against Manchester United in 2011. Van Persie, now 41, emphasized that such challenging moments are crucial for a player’s development.
What Happened?
Van Persie, recalling the 2011-12 Premier League season when he captained Arsenal in the infamous 8-2 loss at Old Trafford, stated that it was one of the most difficult experiences of his playing career. However, he added that these types of losses can serve as learning opportunities for players, stating, “These moments are part of football. Even in tough times, you must continue to take pride in yourself and your team.”
Staying True to His Game
Heerenveen suffered their heaviest defeat in history, but Van Persie praised his team for their first-half performance, noting that they were only down 2-1 at halftime. He added that the second half quickly unraveled after conceding several fast goals, saying, “The third, fourth, and fifth goals came rapidly, and that fueled AZ.”
Despite the defeat, Van Persie remains committed to an attacking style of play. He emphasized, “Even during difficult times, it’s important to stick to what we’ve worked on. We will continue playing our game,” reinforcing his belief in his team and their philosophy.
