Robin van Persie was a striker of exquisite technique and ferocious left-footed finishing, one of the most complete forwards of his generation. He emerged at Feyenoord before establishing himself at Arsenal, where he developed into a prolific and elegant marksman capable of scoring goals of rare quality.
A move to Manchester United brought him a Premier League title, his goals proving decisive in the championship-winning campaign. For the Netherlands he was a talismanic scorer, and his flying header against Spain at the 2014 World Cup stands among the tournament’s most iconic goals. Injuries punctuated his career, but at his best he was a forward of genuine artistry.