Van Persie Breaks Down in Tears: One Substitution, a Father’s Deepest Regret

In the early hours of January 30, Feyenoord’s Europa League campaign ended in heartbreak—not only because of a 1-2 away defeat to Real Betis, but due to a deeply personal tragedy for head coach Robin van Persie.

Needing a win to stay alive in the competition, Feyenoord trailed 0-2 at halftime. In the second half, Van Persie made several attacking substitutions, including bringing on his 19-year-old son, Shaqueel van Persie, whom he had promoted from the youth team earlier this season. Shaqueel had impressed recently, scoring twice as a substitute on January 19.

Shortly after Shaqueel entered the match, Feyenoord pulled one goal back and momentum appeared to shift. But just 11 minutes later, disaster struck. During a challenge, Shaqueel landed awkwardly and suffered a serious knee injury. He collapsed in pain, unable to continue, tears streaming down his face.

On the touchline, Van Persie watched replays anxiously, his expression turning grave. As Shaqueel was carried off on a stretcher, Van Persie rushed over, stopping it briefly to comfort his son.

Feyenoord ultimately lost the match and were eliminated from the Europa League, but the result felt insignificant compared to the injury. At the post-match press conference, the usually composed 42-year-old could not hold back his tears.

“The situation doesn’t look good,” Van Persie said. “Further tests are needed, but the initial signs are not positive. I worry whenever a player gets injured—today it just happened to be my son. I truly hope it’s not too serious.”

Reflecting on his decision, Van Persie admitted his pain: “It’s heartbreaking. I’m his coach, but I’m also his father. Watching him go through this—I feel terrible.”