by Nia Griffiths

The news that Robin van Persie’s time at Manchester United had come to an end didn’t come as a huge shock to most Arsenal fans; the boss, on the other hand, claimed he was surprised.

Speaking about the transfer of Van Persie to Turkish club Fenerbahce, Arsene Wenger seemed flabbergasted that the striker, who scored 37 goals for us in his final season at the Emirates, was on his way out of the Premier League. Although, something tells me the move wasn’t that much of a surprise for the manager who’d stood by him him through countless injuries over the course of eight years.

Although the final fee is yet to be officially reported, the deal is thought to be for three years and supposed to be in the ballpark of £3.5m (snorts).

While away in Singapore for Arsenal’s pre-season training, in which they play in the Barclays Asia Trophy, Wenger said, “It is a very big surprise that Robin van Persie has been allowed to go to Turkey. He is a huge loss to English football because he is still a great footballer.”

The Frenchman continued, “He was one of the best I ever managed, a man with an exceptional technique. I don’t know what happened or why he left Manchester United but I have to tell you that he is a great loss to the Premier League.”

You can’t help but think he must be feeling a little bit smug right now… Just a little.