Robin van Persie remains one of Manchester United’s most celebrated modern strikers, having played a decisive role in Sir Alex Ferguson’s final Premier League triumph.

The Dutchman arrived from Arsenal for £24 million in 2012 and immediately transformed United’s attack.

He scored 26 league goals during his debut campaign, winning the Golden Boot and helping United secure their 20th English league title.

His unforgettable hat-trick against Aston Villa in April 2013 sealed the championship, with his spectacular volley from Wayne Rooney’s pass becoming an iconic Old Trafford moment.

Van Persie left United in 2015 before eventually pursuing a managerial career.

Meanwhile, his former club are enduring another disastrous season, with Michael Carrick facing mounting pressure following nine consecutive matches without victory.

Saturday’s 2-0 defeat against Chelsea left United 17th in the Premier League, having won just two of their opening 13 competitive fixtures.

Several managerial candidates have emerged, with Julian Nagelsmann contacted over the position and Eddie Howe reportedly favoured by director of football Jason Wilcox.

Unai Emery and Antonio Conte have also been discussed, although United have yet to dismiss Carrick.

Now, Van Persie has emerged on another major club’s managerial shortlist, potentially opening the door to an emotional return.

Robin van Persie shortlisted for return

According to Turkish outlet Ajansspor, Robin van Persie has been included among Fenerbahce’s candidates to replace Ismail Kartal.

The Turkish giants are searching for a new manager following Kartal’s resignation, with president Aziz Yildirim considering several options.

Van Persie previously represented Fenerbahce between 2015 and 2018 after leaving Manchester United.

He recently reunited with former teammate Ismail Koybasi while attending a UEFA Youth League fixture involving AZ Alkmaar and Goztepe.

The 43-year-old began his senior managerial career at Heerenveen in 2024 before taking charge of Feyenoord in February 2025.

He guided Feyenoord to Champions League qualification but departed in June 2026 after an internal performance review.

The Dutch club identified declining results and underlying performance data as reasons for his dismissal.

However, Van Persie faces significant competition for the Fenerbahce position.

Antonio Conte, Stefano Pioli, Vincenzo Montella and Roberto Martinez have also been linked, while more recent Turkish reports suggest Sergio Conceicao has emerged as a leading candidate.

No formal offer to Van Persie has been confirmed.