Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has revealed that Robin van Persie knew at the end of last season that his career at Old Trafford was coming to an end.
The 31-year-old striker signed a deal with Turkish side Fenerbahce on Tuesday after spending three seasons at United.
During the Red Devils' pre-season tour of the United States, Van Gaal revealed that he informed his fellow Dutchman that he was surplus to requirements after the pair played a round of golf.
"Every decision is difficult - not only to catch players but also to let them go," Van Gaal told reporters. "But I had the conversation with [Van Persie] at the end of the season after we played golf one day so he knew already what was coming and I think he has made a very good choice [in moving to Fenerbahce].
"After we played golf, we talked about the perspective for him at Manchester United."
The club are reportedly now on the hunt for a new striker, with Paris Saint-Germain's Edinson Cavani being touted as a potential target.
Danielle Joynson
