Robin van Persie 'so proud' Manchester United star who is 'giving youngsters hope'

Robin van Persie says former Feyenoord teammate Tyrell Malacia is inspiring young footballers back in the Netherlands with his impact at Manchester United.

The left-back arrived as Erik ten Hag’s first signing as Reds boss in the summer and has played 30 times so far, briefly becoming first-choice ahead of Luke Shaw in the early stages of the season.

After leaving United for Fenerbahce in 2015, Van Persie returned to boyhood club Feyenoord in 2018, playing one season before retiring. During that campaign, he featured alongside Malacia as the team finished third in the Eredivisie.

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He believes Malacia, 23, was a shrewd signing for United and unpacked what he offers Ten Hag. Speaking to club media, Van Persie said: "I do believe, per window, [you have] to get a couple of the right players in, and Tyrell Malacia is one of them.

"He wasn’t really well known before he came. I played with him at Feyenoord, so I knew how good he was, and still is, and he is proving that every game.

"When it clicks and when it's clear what to do, because clearly [there are] both full-backs - Diogo Dalot on the right side, you have Luke Shaw sometimes on the left, or Tyrell - you can see that they know exactly what to do in ball possession, as well when the opponent has the ball. He’s doing that so well and I’m so proud of him.”

Malacia grew up in the same area as Van Persie did as a youngster and the ex-striker detailed what effect the full-back’s career is having on others back in his homeland.

"He’s from my city, he’s from my club. He’s giving a lot of youngsters hope,” Van Persie added. "He is now playing on the highest level and competing against the best.

“He’s not