ROTTERDAM, Netherlands – Robin van Persie, the head coach of Eredivisie side Feyenoord, reportedly wasn’t initially receptive to the idea of receiving guidance from veteran football manager Dick Advocaat. The surprising development, as reported by Dutch columnist Hugo Borst in Algemeen Dagblad, unfolded amidst a period of challenging results for the Rotterdam club, ultimately leading to a condition set by Feyenoord’s general and technical director, Dennis te Kloese, regarding Van Persie’s continued employment.
Feyenoord announced last week that Advocaat, 78, would serve as an advisor to Van Persie until the end of the season. This move came as a surprise to many, given Van Persie’s previous stance against external input. According to Borst, Van Persie has historically been hesitant to accept advice, a trait noted during his time at Heerenveen and now resurfacing at Feyenoord. “You are someone who unfortunately isn’t open to input from the people around you,” Borst wrote, directly addressing Van Persie. “René Hake, for example, is just there for show.”
The situation was further complicated by a recent attempt to bring Kees van Wonderen on board as Feyenoord’s new technical director. That deal ultimately fell through since Van Wonderen desired a more hands-on role with the first team than Van Persie deemed necessary. Borst suggests that the possibility of bringing in Advocaat was already on the table at that time, but Van Persie initially rejected the idea. However, Van Persie publicly stated last week that he was enthusiastic about Advocaat’s arrival “from the first second,” adding, “But time consists of victories or defeats. Lose two games in a row and time flies.”
The intervention of Te Kloese came after Feyenoord suffered a 2-0 defeat against FC Twente and a 3-3 draw with NAC Breda. According to Borst, Te Kloese stipulated that Van Persie could remain as coach only if he accepted Advocaat’s assistance. “When your boss decided you could stay, under conditions, you had to accept Dick,” Borst wrote. “It’s too much to say you were placed under guardianship, but the perception that Dick was imposed on you doesn’t perform in your favor.”
Borst characterizes the appointment of Advocaat as “purely political,” arguing that dismissing Van Persie would have left Te Kloese vulnerable. “So he came up with Dick. Sly, we all love Dickie. He has the image of an experienced hand, a nice man, the ultimate troubleshooter, someone who can apply a temporary fix. He doesn’t saw at chair legs. Still, Dick shouldn’t have taken this job.” Borst believes Advocaat’s presence could be detrimental to Van Persie’s authority.
‘Next Season, Excelsior’
Borst goes further, suggesting that even if Feyenoord secures a second-place finish and Champions League qualification, Van Persie’s position should be reconsidered. “I’m not saying that will happen, but the political party Feyenoord is ruthless enough for it. It could even be defended. Because you made mistakes. Eh, many mistakes. Eh, a lot of mistakes.” The columnist contends that Van Persie is already “damaged,” regardless of the season’s outcome. “It’s a shame. That wasn’t necessary. I sincerely hope you get second and third chances. It sounds strange, but you should coach Excelsior next year. Seriously. And start all over again.”
Advocaat’s arrival marks his third stint with Feyenoord. He previously managed the club from 2019 to 2021 and served as an advisor to Giovanni van Bronckhorst a decade ago. [1] His experience and knowledge of the club are undeniable, but the circumstances surrounding his appointment raise questions about the dynamics within the Feyenoord coaching staff.
The 78-year-old Advocaat recently stepped down as the head coach of Curaçao due to personal reasons, making him available to assist Feyenoord. [1] He will work behind the scenes, without taking a place in the dugout, and began attending training sessions at the 1908 complex on Wednesday. [1] Advocaat intends to leverage his extensive experience to support the attackers and the technical staff. [1]
Feyenoord currently sits in second place in the Eredivisie, seven points behind league leaders PSV Eindhoven, and is battling to secure a Champions League spot. [4] The club’s leadership and technical director Dennis te Kloese reportedly sought additional support for the team and staff, and both Van Persie and Advocaat responded positively to the collaboration. [1]
This situation highlights the pressures faced by Van Persie in his first major managerial role. While his playing career was illustrious, translating that success to the touchline has proven challenging. The addition of Advocaat, while potentially beneficial, likewise introduces a complex dynamic that could either stabilize the team or further complicate matters. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether this unconventional partnership can salvage Feyenoord’s season and secure Champions League football for next year.
Feyenoord’s next match is against Fortuna Sittard on Sunday, March 29th, at 14:30 CET (13:30 UTC). The team will be looking to regain momentum after a recent string of inconsistent results. Fans can follow updates on the official Feyenoord website and social media channels.
