Robin van Persie has confirmed his son, Shaqueel van Persie, suffered a serious knee injury while playing for Feyenoord in the Europa League defeat at Real Betis.
The former Arsenal and Manchester United striker admitted the setback has hit the family hard, revealing the teenager’s problem is significant after the incident in Spain.
“It’s heartbreaking,” Van Persie said, as he spoke about the injury and the impact it has had on Shaqueel’s progress.
Shaqueel was involved in Feyenoord’s Europa League loss away to Real Betis when the injury occurred, leaving the club and those close to him facing an anxious wait over his recovery.
Van Persie’s comments confirmed the seriousness of the knee issue, with the ex-Netherlands international stressing how difficult it is to see his son suffer such a blow.
Feyenoord were beaten by Betis in the European tie, and the match is now remembered in the Van Persie household for the painful moment that led to Shaqueel’s injury.
The 40-year-old, who remains one of Dutch football’s most recognisable names, underlined that the focus is now on Shaqueel coming through the injury and getting back to full fitness.
