By Udo Toby Prince
Robin van Persie has completed his move from Manchester United to Fenerbahce for an undisclosed fee.
The Netherlands striker, 31, who was unveiled in front of about 10,000 supporters on Tuesday said he has “no hard feelings” over his departure from Manchester United
He said: “It’s part of football, it’s part of life. It was a situation where I could see it coming, if I’m really honest.”
Van Persie added that he “got used to the idea” of leaving United.
He said: “I had a good moment with the players the day before I came to Istanbul so that was special. Then you see that everyone really appreciated my time there, that was important for me.”
For his new set of fans came the words “I promise you one thing – I will do everything in my power to help Fenerbahce win as many trophies to make you happy. Let’s do it together.”
Van Persie spent three years at United, scoring 58 goals, after signing from Arsenal for £24m.
In a related development, Raheem Sterling has signed for Manchester City from Liverpool on a five-year contract for £49m.
The 20-year-old will now join Manuel Pellegrini’s squad on the pre-season tour to Australia.
Sterling, who will wear the No 7 shirt, underwent the necessary medical checks on Tuesday after an agreement between Liverpool and Manchester City was struck on Sunday afternoon on a deal which will cost City an initial £44m, with a further £5m due in add-ons.
Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini said: “Raheem Sterling is one of the best attacking players in world football, and I am very much looking forward to him joining our squad out in Australia later this week.
“He is a young player with outstanding ability, and I am sure the Manchester City fans will be very excited about seeing him in action for the team.”
The deal ends one of the more drawn out transfer stories of the summer after City had two previous bids knocked back. Liverpool had wanted to keep hold of the England international but the club’s relationship with the winger deteriorated to such an extent that a transfer was inevitable.
