Rotterdam: It was supposed to be a proud European night for Robin van Persie on Thursday, January 29, 2026. Instead, it ended in anguish. Feyenoord talent Shaqueel van Persie was forced off on a stretcher during his side's UEFA Europa League clash against Real Betis after suffering what looked to be a serious knee injury. The 19-year-old, son of the Feyenoord head coach, had only been on the pitch for minutes.
According to Ghana Web, Shaqueel was introduced in the 73rd minute and made an immediate impact by assisting Casper Tengstedt's goal to put Feyenoord 2-1 ahead. However, just ten minutes later, disaster struck. After landing awkwardly on his right leg, his knee appeared to bend backward, leaving the youngster in visible agony as medical staff rushed to his aid.
As Shaqueel was carried toward the sideline, Robin van Persie walked over, not just as a manager, but as a father. Van Persie expressed his concern in a post-match interview with Ziggo Sport, stating, 'It's not looking good. Tests have to point out how he's doing, but the first signs are not looking good.'
The former Arsenal and Manchester United striker admitted the moment was deeply personal. 'I'm a coach, but I'm also his father, and I find this terrible. It's a bit of both. It's heartbreaking that he's going through this,' he added.