Van Persie Under Pressure as Feyenoord Host Celtic in Key Europa League Showdown

Overview

Rotterdam plays host to a pivotal Europa League night as Feyenoord, guided by former star Robin van Persie, welcome Celtic. Both teams are looking to steady their campaigns and push for progress from the group, adding extra intensity to a high-stakes midweek clash at De Kuip.

Background and context

Van Persie stepped into management in February, taking the helm after a recent managerial shake-up at the club. The Dutch striker’s coaching résumé includes a spell at Heerenveen, where he managed 26 games and secured nine wins, and time as an assistant to Dick Advocaat at Feyenoord. His transition from spray-filled celebrations to the dugout has drawn widespread attention as he faces his first major test in Europe with Feyenoord.

Current form and selection

Feyenoord have hit a rough patch, losing three of their last five matches and falling behind Celtic on the Europa League standings after a 4-2 home defeat to NEC Nijmegen ended a late comeback bid. Their Eredivisie title rivals PSV Eindhoven have taken top spot, highlighting how quickly fortunes can swing for the Dutch champions.

Van Persie acknowledged the fragility of their recent performances, saying the latest defeat was hard to swallow despite a generally solid performance against Stuttgart. The sense of urgency is clear as Feyenoord bid to regain momentum in Europe and domestically.

Team news and notable moments

The match carries a personal moment for Van Persie, who handed his 19-year-old son Shaqheel a place on the bench for his first-team involvement—an occasion the manager described with care, stressing that he treats his son the same as any other player.

Feyenoord’s scoring threat comes from Ayase Ueda, who has found the net 13 times in 18 appearances, with Anis Hadji Moussa stepping up this season. New captain Sam Steijn has been a prominent figure since arriving in the summer. Celtic, meanwhile, head to Rotterdam with injuries that could shape their lineup and affect their plan to snatch a result on the road.

Historical angle

While this clash doesn’t carry the weight of the classic 1970 European Cup nights, the stakes are tangible in a group where every point matters for both sides as they chase qualification and pride on Europe’s big stage.

Key Takeaways

• Van Persie’s first major managerial test in Europe is turning heads as Feyenoord seek stability and results.
• Both Feyenoord and Celtic need points to stay in contention in the group standings.
• Shaqheel Van Persie’s on-the-bench moment marks a personal milestone for the manager and his family.
• Injuries and squad depth could decisively influence the outcome in Rotterdam.

Expert view

Expert view: Van Persie is still adjusting to life in management, and a positive display could calm growing scrutiny around Feyenoord. For Celtic, navigating injuries will be key as they aim to collect points on the road.

Summary

This Europa League fixture in Rotterdam pits a rebuilding Feyenoord against Celtic with both sides eager to salvage their group campaigns. Van Persie’s leadership will be tested under pressure, while tactical decisions and availability of players shape the narrative on the night. The encounter also carries a personal moment as his son Shaqheel steps into the squad for the first time at senior level.

Key insight: The result could redefine Feyenoord’s European trajectory and mark the early chapter of Van Persie’s managerial journey. Source: BBC Sport