Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis, has spoken for the first time about Robin van Persie’s move to Manchester United last year.
The Dutchman turned down a contract at the Emirates and was allowed to leave for Old Trafford, where he scored 30 goals in all competitions, as United regained their Premier League crown.
Gazidis was adamant that it was the right decision to sell their former skipper, but admits he still hurts when van Persie scores for his new team.
“Selling Robin was one of the most difficult decisions that we as a club have had to make,” he continued.
“I respect the views of those who say we should have held him to his contract and let it play out. I understand that and we thought very hard about doing that.
“The important thing to understand about this, whether you agree with it or not – and I accept it is difficult to agree with – is that the motivation was never about trying to pocket £24m.
“The motivation was thinking responsibly about how we could develop the team and move forward, while understanding the reality of the choices we had with Robin – none of which were good, all of them were bad.
“So the decision was made with the best interests of the club at its heart.
“Clearly, seeing the way the season has panned out it hurts – it hurts me as it hurts all of you to see Robin scoring goals in a Manchester United shirt. I don’t feel good about that.”
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