Robin van Persie is set for an emotional return to Istanbul as Feyenoord have been drawn against Turkish giants Fenerbahce in the third qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League. The clash will mark Van Persie’s first visit back to the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium since his playing days with the Istanbul-based club.
Van Persie Returns to Istanbul in High-Stakes Clash
The Champions League qualifiers have delivered a compelling narrative with Feyenoord’s draw against Fenerbahce. Now leading the Dutch side as manager, Van Persie spent two-and-a-half seasons at Fenerbahce between 2015 and 2018 after leaving Manchester United. During his time in Istanbul, the Dutch striker netted 36 goals in 87 appearances, becoming a fan favorite despite a turbulent period for the club.
This matchup will be Van Persie’s first return to the stadium where he once dazzled crowds, this time aiming to eliminate his former team from Europe’s elite competition.
A Brief History: Feyenoord vs Fenerbahce
These two sides share a brief but memorable competitive history. Their only previous meetings came in the 2016/17 UEFA Europa League group stage, where Fenerbahce came out on top in both fixtures. Goals from Emmanuel Emenike and Moussa Sow sealed consecutive 1-0 victories for the Turkish side.
Now, nearly a decade later, the stakes are higher as both teams chase a coveted spot in the Champions League group stage.
Feyenoord Dealing with Key Absences
The Rotterdam club won’t be at full strength for the qualifiers. Brazilian winger Igor Paixão, a key attacking figure last season, is sidelined with a muscle injury and is reportedly nearing a move to Ligue 1’s Olympique Marseille.
Vice-captain David Hancko is also expected to miss both legs of the tie as he finalizes a transfer to Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Nassr. His absence in defense could prove significant against Fenerbahce’s dangerous attack.
Match Schedule and Domestic League Openers
Feyenoord will host the first leg on either August 5th or 6th before traveling to Istanbul for the return fixture on August 12th. Both clubs will then kick off their respective domestic campaigns on August 9th — Feyenoord welcome NAC Breda in the Eredivisie, while Fenerbahce face Alanyaspor in the Turkish Super Lig.
