‘He’s a big loss for English football’ – Wenger surprised by Van Persie’s Man United departure
Arsene Wenger says he did not expect Robin van Persie to leave Manchester United this summer.
The former Arsenal forward completed a move to Turkish side Fenerbahce this week after falling out of favour with United boss Louis van Gaal.
Wenger, who brought Van Persie to the Premier League in 2004, believes the 31-year-old still had the ability to lead United's frontline next season.
"I'm quite surprised that Robin van Persie has gone to Turkey this summer," said Wenger.
"He's a loss for English football because he's an exceptional player, one of the best I've managed.
"He has an exceptional technique. I don't know what happened or why he leaves but he's a loss to the Premier League."