Robin van Persie relishing return to Old Trafford (Picture: Getty)

Former Manchester United star Robin van Persie is relishing a return to Old Trafford this week with Fenerbahce in the Europa League.

The Dutch striker only left United just over a year ago to make the move to Turkey, having become a real fans’ favourite in just three seasons with the club.

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Van Persie, 33, notably left Arsenal after eight years in north London to controversially join their rivals United, but immediately found great success with the Red Devils.

Having scored 30 goals to fire United to the title in 2012/13, Van Persie cemented his place as a United great, despite spending the bulk of his career with the Gunners.


Van Persie played a decisive role in United’s 20th league title win (Picture: Getty)

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And his allegiance with United over Arsenal is now clear, as he says he’s returning ‘home’ this week when his new team travels to England.

‘It will be a special occasion and a special game for me,’ he said.

‘I know Manchester United want to be in the Champions League, but it is how it is now and for me it is a very special group in the Europa League. In the last match I had a game against one of my first teams, Feyenoord, and next it’s United. I am looking forward to it.

Van Persie comparison At Arsenal: 277 games

132 goals

2 trophies At Manchester United: 105 games

58 goals

2 trophies

‘I am now playing for Fenerbahce and I want to do well for my team but of course it will be special to play ‘at home’ in a great stadium with great fans against a great team.

‘It will be tough for us. United are the favourites, but you never know what will happen. In general I am looking forward to a nice evening and enjoying the whole experience.’

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