With the game against Manchester United coming up, Wenger spoke about his former player, Robin van Persie. The Dutchman who left London last summer, has become one of the best players United currently have. His efficiency in front of goal is amazing and his skill is hard to match. The 24 million pound deal was possible after the former Gunner refused to reach a new agreement with Arsenal. The most important factor that determined this unexpected move was Van Persie’s desperate need to win an important trophy which did not happen since moving to England. It looks like he made an inspired choice, winning his first Premier League trophy with Manchester.

According to Metro, Wenger did not forget to mention his former player in his pre-game comments. The Frenchman insists that Van Persie will always be linked to Arsenal for whom he managed to score 96 goals in 194 appearances.

The Dutchman had an incredible season after moving to Manchester. No one expected him to perform at such a high level and also manage to quickly become part of the team. His 26 goals made United fans forget he came from North London. When asked about his encounter with Van Persie, Wenger said it is always going to be strange to face his former player who in his eyes will always remain an Arsenal man.

Arsenal’s manager also discussed some more delicate subjects related to the Dutchman’s departure. Wenger said that Van Persie was convinced by United’s former assistant manager who is also Dutch. If not for Rene Meulensteen, the Holland international would have thought twice before signing with Manchester United. Wenger’s statements also refer to the fact that it would have been impossible to keep the 30 year old striker who looked pretty determined to win some trophies after a 7 year drought. It can be pretty frustrating for a footballer of Van Persie’s talent to only win the F.A Cup in 8 years spent with the North London side. He had grown tired of waiting and that affected his game.