Robin van Persie (Part 2)

The 2006–07 season started off spectacularly for Robin van Persie, highlighted by a sensational airborne volley against Charlton Athletic, which Arsene Wenger hailed as the goal of a lifetime. This remarkable goal earned Van Persie BBC Sport Goal of the Month for September, further solidifying his status as one of the Premier League most talented forwards. Additionally, his stellar performances on the pitch earned him the prestigious title of 2006 Rotterdam Sportsman of the Year, a testament to his growing reputation in the world of football.
Van Persie season took a disappointing turn when he suffered a fractured fifth metatarsal in his right foot on 21 January. The injury occurred during the celebration of his late equalizer against Manchester United, forcing him to end his campaign prematurely for the second time in his career. Despite his time on the sidelines, Van Persie still managed to finish as Arsenal top goalscorer for the season, demonstrating his goal-scoring prowess with a total of 13 goals in all competitions.


Following Thierry Henry's departure for Barcelona ahead of the 2007–08 season, Robin van Persie stepped up to assume the role of Arsenal primary striker. Displaying his goal scoring prowess, Van Persie embarked on a prolific run, netting seven goals in ten regular-season games. However, his momentum was abruptly halted when he sustained a knee injury while on international duty, forcing him to spend two months on the sidelines.
Van Persie marked his comeback with a return to action in Arsenal's Champions League victory against Steaua București on 12 December. Despite this positive development, he suffered a recurrence of his injury shortly thereafter, which kept him out of action until January. His return was short lived, as he experienced another injury setback during a League Cup match against Tottenham Hotspur, resulting in his premature withdrawal at half time.


Throughout the remainder of the campaign, Van Persie playing time was limited as he battled with injuries, featuring sporadically for Arsenal. Despite the setbacks, he continued to contribute whenever he was available, showcasing his resilience and determination to overcome adversity on the field.
Robin van Persie showcased his goal-scoring prowess and leadership qualities for Arsenal. He began the campaign in style by netting a brace in Arsenal's 3–0 victory over Newcastle United on 31 August. Van Persie continued to make significant contributions throughout the season, reaching several milestones and delivering standout performances.


On 29 October, he reached a milestone by scoring his fiftieth career goal for Arsenal in a thrilling 4–4 draw with North London rivals Tottenham. However, his season was not without its challenges, as he received his first red card of the season on 1 November after a collision with goalkeeper Thomas Sørensen in a match against Stoke City.
Van Persie influence on the pitch was undeniable, demonstrated by his crucial goals against top opponents. Notably, he scored a brace against Chelsea to secure a 2–1 victory for Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on 30 November. Additionally, his spectacular goal against Liverpool on 21 December earned him recognition with the BBC Goal of the Month award.


Van Persie exceptional form continued, as he either scored or assisted every Arsenal goal during the month, earning him the club Player of the Month award. One standout performance came against Hull City, where he struck the post with a freekick and provided three assists to his teammates.
Van Persie impact extended to the UEFA Champions League, where he converted crucial penalties in matches against Roma and Villarreal. His contributions helped Arsenal progress in the tournament and showcased his ability to perform under pressure on the European stage.
The season culminated with Van Persie once again finishing as Arsenal's top scorer, securing the honor for the second time in his career. He ended the campaign with impressive statistics, including 11 Premier League goals, 11 assists, and a total of 20 goals in all competitions. Van Persie's outstanding performances earned him recognition as the 2008–09 Arsenal.com Player of the Season, solidifying his status as a key figure in the team.


Robin van Persie played a pivotal role for Arsenal, both on and off the pitch. Negotiations over a contract extension kept fans on edge until July when it was announced that he had committed his future to the club, expressing his deep connection to Arsenal.
As Arsenal's main striker following Emmanuel Adebayor's departure, Van Persie embraced his role in Arsène Wenger 4–3–3 system. He made an impactful start to the season, providing two assists in the opening match against Everton, contributing to a convincing 6–1 victory. His versatility as a set-piece taker and playmaker was evident, as he set up numerous goals for his teammates, including Thomas Vermaelen's debut goal against Everton.


Van Persie goal-scoring prowess was also evident throughout the season. Despite suffering an ankle injury in November that initially sidelined him for six weeks, he made a triumphant return in April against Tottenham Hotspur. His comeback was marked by a crucial header against Blackburn Rovers and a well-taken goal assisted by Theo Walcott in a 4–0 win over Fulham, demonstrating his enduring impact on the team.
Notably, Van Persie's exceptional performances in October earned him the Premier League Player of the Month award for the second time in his career, highlighting his importance to Arsenal's success. Despite facing setbacks due to injury, Van Persie's dedication and talent continued to shine through, cementing his status as a key figure in the Arsenal squad.


Robin van Persie made significant contributions to Arsenal's campaign, despite facing injury setbacks. Before the season began, he made a symbolic gesture by changing his squad number to 10, previously worn by Arsenal legend Dennis Bergkamp, showcasing his respect for the clubs heritage.
Van Persies season started with a milestone as he made his 200th appearance for Arsenal but was unfortunately sidelined due to an ankle injury sustained in the same game. However, he made a resilient comeback, featuring as a substitute in Arsenal's match against Newcastle United.


His return to the pitch marked the beginning of an impressive goal-scoring spree. Van Persie scored his first goal of the season in a 3–0 victory over Birmingham City on New Year Day, followed by two more goals against West Ham United, making him the fourth Dutchman to reach 50 goals in England top division.
Van Persie's standout moment came with his first career hat-trick in a 3–0 win over Wigan Athletic, showcasing his clinical finishing ability. His goal-scoring exploits continued with braces against Newcastle United and Wolverhampton Wanderers, setting a new Premier League record for most goals scored in the first two months of a calendar year.


In addition to his league performances, Van Persie displayed his talent on the European stage, scoring a memorable goal against Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, contributing to Arsenal's victory over the Spanish giants.
Despite facing injury concerns, Van Persie leadership qualities were evident when he captained Arsenal in the League Cup final at Wembley Stadium, scoring the equalizer before being forced off due to a knee injury. His determination and impact on the pitch endeared him to Arsenal fans and solidified his status as a key figure in the team.

References

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2. a b Northcroft, Jonathan . "Young Gunner". The Sunday Times. Archived from the original on 16 September 2016. Retrieved 19 September 2008.
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5. ^ Robin Van Persie Bio, Stats, News ESPN Soccernet
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10. ^ Warren, Dan. "Charlton 1–2 Arsenal". BBC Sport (British Broadcasting Corporation). Retrieved 15 October 2013.
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