Pranav Nair
Robin van Persie impressed by five Man United players
The signing of Robin van Persie from Arsenal was one of Sir Alex Ferguson’s best transfers in his time at Old Trafford.
United went into the summer of 2012 after having lost out on the Premier League title to city rivals Manchester City on goal difference. The perfect remedy for that heartbreak was to make the right splash in the transfer market going into the new season.
We did just that when we brought in Van Persie from arch-rivals Arsenal. The Dutch sharpshooter went on to score 30 goals and 15 assists in 48 appearances as we sauntered our way to regaining our title.
It ensured a fitting end to the SAF era at Old Trafford. Few players have made an immediate impact at United.
Van Persie too was left impressed by the quality in the United squad. He has opened up on the five players who left a lasting impression on him, according to an interview with So Foot (h/t Manchester Evening News)
An ageing but immortal set
Two of the quintet were none other than our defensive wall Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand. The duo was one of the best defensive pairings in Premier League history.
According to Van Persie, Vidic was a warrior who was brave to do things others wouldn’t, whereas Ferdinand was the more suave and elegant of the pair.
In spite of being 39, Ryan Giggs never looked out of place. The Welsh wizard was fit and lived football all the time.
“Giggs was the flamboyant player, always giving the impression of being in his comfort zone”
Van Persie was also full of praise for his striker partner Wayne Rooney. The duo struck up a formidable partnership that plundered in 46 goals and 29 assists together.
The Dutchman was also left impressed by French star Patrice Evra. In spite of him showing his humour side, Persie revealed that the defender is an intelligent professional.
“His mind is as strong as his body.”
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Van Persie spent three seasons at Old Trafford before returning to the Netherlands in 2015. He made 105 appearances for the Red Devils, scoring 58 goals and 21 assists.
