Robin van Persie openly welcomed Anis Hadj Moussa’s early return to Feyenoord after Algeria’s elimination from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, admitting his satisfaction at regaining one of his most influential players during a delicate phase of the season.
The Algerian winger, who serves as Feyenoord’s vice-captain and technical reference point, rejoined the Dutch club following Algeria’s exit from the continental tournament.
His return came at a moment when Feyenoord struggled to find stability, underlining his importance to the team’s overall balance.
Earlier this week, Feyenoord resumed Eredivisie action without Hadj Moussa and settled for a frustrating 2-2 draw against Heerenveen.
The result extended a difficult run that began before the winter break and exposed a lack of cutting edge in decisive moments.
The absence of Hadj Moussa, whose influence stretches beyond goals and assists, quickly became evident.
Speaking candidly to the Dutch media, head coach Robin van Persie did not hide his relief.
He acknowledged the disappointment his player must have felt at exiting the Africa Cup of Nations but placed the club’s needs firmly in focus.
Van Persie stressed that from Feyenoord’s perspective, the winger’s early availability offered a timely boost as domestic competition intensified.
Before departing for AFCON duty, Hadj Moussa enjoyed an impressive first half of the season.
He delivered seven goals and three assists in 23 appearances across all competitions, numbers that reflected both his consistency and his decisive impact in attacking phases.
His direct running, relentless work rate and ability to destabilise defensive lines made him a central figure in Van Persie’s tactical structure.
Beyond statistics, Hadj Moussa’s leadership also shaped Feyenoord’s identity.
As vice-captain, he set the tempo during matches and carried responsibility during demanding periods, qualities that the team clearly missed during his absence.
Now back in the Netherlands, the Algerian international prepares for an immediate return to action.
Feyenoord will host Sparta Rotterdam next Sunday, a fixture that offers an opportunity to reset momentum and restore confidence.
Hadj Moussa’s return brings renewed belief within the squad as the club looks to halt its inconsistent run and reassert itself in the Eredivisie title race.
For Van Persie, the message remains simple. Feyenoord needs its key players fit, available and influential.
With Hadj Moussa back in contention, the coach expects a swift response on the pitch and a stronger collective direction in the weeks ahead.
