Fenenoord (2001 - 2004)

 
Van Persie joined the youth division at Excelsior club and began his journey as a professional footballer when he left for Feyenoord at the age of 16 after falling out with the Excelsior coaching staff over his "petulant" attitude. At Feyenoord, he was quickly promoted to be in the first team, and made his debut during the 2001/02 season with the club at 17. 
 
As a rising star, Van Persie was known to have a conceited behaviour and had a hard time interacting with team members, club managers and coaches. For that reason, he was placed on the bench for the most of the 2003/04 season at Feyenoord, driving him to eventually leave the club for English football club, Arsenal.