Van Persie sees son make senior Feyenoord debut in a challenging European night
A debut on a difficult night
Feyenoord’s European campaign has faltered in recent weeks, and the 3,1 loss to Celtic at De Kuip extended their run of defeats in the competition. Late in the second half, with the match slipping away, Robin van Persie turned to a familiar face on the bench.
Shaqueel van Persie entered the pitch for his senior debut, replacing a tiring attacker as Feyenoord searched for a way back into the match. Although the teenager showed brief flashes of his movement and composure, Celtic held firm, leaving the home crowd with few positives to take from the result beyond the promising milestone.
Van Persie explains his decision
Speaking to TNT Sports, quoted by Daily Mail, Robin van Persie said the substitution was made with the game state in mind. Feyenoord needed attacking presence, he explained, and Shaqueel is known within the academy for his instinct inside the penalty area.
The former Arsenal and Manchester United forward said that during the match he focused purely on tactical demands, only recognising the personal significance once the final whistle blew. He added that he and his son agreed long ago to maintain a clear distinction between coach and player while working together.
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How Shaqueel has been shaped as a player
Shaqueel rejoined Feyenoord’s academy in 2017 after two years at Manchester City and signed his first professional contract in 2022. Coaches describe him as a technically sharp forward with a strong work ethic, traits that have become more noticeable in recent seasons as he progressed through the youth ranks.
Stories about his upbringing in football have circulated widely. On the High Performance Podcast in 2020, Robin van Persie shared a moment from Shaqueel’s Under,14 days, when the teenager complained after sitting on the bench. Van Persie challenged him to take responsibility rather than blame others, a conversation he said sparked a shift in his son’s attitude and dedication.
Why the moment matters for Feyenoord
This season marks Robin van Persie’s first in charge of the senior team after several years coaching Feyenoord’s youth sides. It comes during a transition period for the club, which faced squad changes over the summer and has been inconsistent in the Europa League.
Shaqueel’s debut resonates strongly with supporters because of his father’s long history with the club. Robin van Persie made his own breakthrough at Feyenoord two decades ago before becoming one of Europe’s leading forwards.
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Seeing his son take early steps in the same colours adds an emotional layer to an otherwise challenging season.
What comes next for the teenager
Feyenoord return to Eredivisie action on Sunday when they travel to Telstar. Shaqueel will hope his short European appearance strengthens his chances of earning minutes in the league, though competition for places remains strong.
For now, his debut stands as a small but meaningful moment in a difficult stretch for Feyenoord and a reminder of how quickly careers can begin, even on nights when results fall the wrong way.
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