Former Manchester United striker Robin van Persie has described manager Erik ten Hag as 'one of the best coaches in modern football' after being invited back to Carrington to work on his coaching badges.
As reported by the Manchester Evening News on Tuesday, the former striker, who played for United between 2012 and 2015, is spending time at the club's training base as he prepares for a career in management. The former Netherlands international is currently working at Dutch outfit Feyenoord in a coaching role.
Despite being invited to Carrington to work on his coaching badges, United sources have stressed that he is not being lined up to join the club's coaching team. Ten Hag has invited Van Persie back to the club to help and support him, given his close relationship with the Reds following his playing career.
READ MORE: Erik ten Hag issues Jadon Sancho fitness update
Van Persie and Ten Hag, along with their agent, Kees Vos, dined out at a Chinese restaurant in Manchester city centre on Monday evening. The duo were then pictured together in conversation following the meal.
Van Persie has since got down to work at Carrington, learning from Ten Hag and taking advice from him as he pursues a prosperous career in football management. And the former striker, who is now 39, has issued a message of thanks to both United and Ten Hag for inviting him along, as well as waxing lyrical about his fellow countryman.
Van Persie, posing for a photograph with coach Benni McCarthy and wingers Alejandro Garnacho and Facundo Pellistri, posted on his Instagram page: "Thanks for the warm welcome, @manchesterunited and Erik ten Hag. Great time back at Carrington for a trip down memory lane and to learn the ropes from one of the best coaches in modern football."
Van Persie's Instagram post was greeted by a response from Reds striking coach McCarthy, who said: "It was an absolute pleasure having you around, @robinvanpersie. Legend and really enjoyed our finishing session wit the boys.
"All the very best with your coaching development. You have the making of a top coach."
READ NEXT:
