UEFA Europa League
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Feyenoord Manager Robin van Persie Calls Sons Injury Devastating

Feyenoord Manager Robin van Persie Calls Son's Injury 'Devastating'

Heart-Wrenching Moment for Van Persie as Son Injured

Van Persie Expresses Pain Over Son’s Injury

Feyenoord’s head coach Robin van Persie described the experience of witnessing his son, Shaqueel, being carried off the field due to injury as “devastating.” This incident occurred during their match against Real Betis, where Feyenoord fell 2-1, resulting in their failure to qualify for the UEFA Europa League playoffs. The team ended up in 29th place, managing only two wins against six losses in their opening eight league matches.

The loss was intensified by the nature of Shaqueel’s injury.

The 19-year-old suffered a severe knee injury and required a stretcher to leave the game.

“It’s truly heartbreaking. The pain he’s experiencing… The initial indications aren’t promising. As a coach and, more personally, as a father, this is devastating,” Van Persie shared at the post-game press conference.

“Right now, it’s concerning. We need tests to determine the full extent of his condition, but the early signs are troubling,” he continued.

Van Persie, a former player for Arsenal and Manchester United, was seen providing comfort to his son as he was taken off the pitch on a stretcher.

“I’m both a coach and a father, and it’s a difficult position to be in. It’s painful to see him going through this,” he added.

A Father’s Support During Challenging Times

“I simply placed my arm around his shoulders; that’s all a father and coach can do in such moments,” Van Persie reflected.

Shaqueel spent part of his childhood at Manchester City’s academy before relocating to the Netherlands, where he made his debut for Feyenoord under the guidance of his father last November. Earlier this month, he netted his first goals for the club in a match against Sparta Rotterdam.

Summary of Match Events

  • Result: Feyenoord 1 – 2 Real Betis
  • League Standing: 29th place with 2 wins, 6 losses
  • Injury: Shaqueel van Persie – serious knee injury

This situation highlights the emotional challenges faced by players and their families, particularly when professional obligations intersect with personal struggles.