Robin van Persie has ruled out any possibility of Anis Hadj Moussa leaving Feyenoord this summer, bringing an abrupt end to Benfica’s hopes of signing the highly rated Algerian winger.
The Feyenoord head coach, frustrated by mounting media speculation, addressed the situation directly, insisting that the 21-year-old remains central to his plans and will not be sold.
Van Persie, speaking in resolute terms, said, “It is not the right time for Anis Hadj Moussa to leave the club. I understand that many clubs are interested in him, but we want to keep our best players. In principle, he is staying: he has a contract that only expires in 2029.”
Van Persie’s comments were seen as a clear response to reports that Benfica had reached a verbal agreement with Hadj Moussa and were preparing to formalise an offer.
However, Feyenoord’s valuation of the player, set at €25 million, has reportedly deterred the Portuguese side. Sources close to the negotiations suggest that the price tag was already a stumbling block before Van Persie’s intervention.
The young winger, who joined Feyenoord amid high expectations, has attracted growing interest after a series of promising performances. Benfica were among the most persistent suitors, with Hadj Moussa himself reportedly open to the switch.
In recent weeks, the player even shared an image of himself at Benfica’s Estádio da Luz, fuelling speculation of an imminent move.
However, despite his apparent desire to make the leap to Portugal, Hadj Moussa’s hands are tied by a long-term contract that runs until 2029.
Feyenoord hold all the leverage, and Van Persie has shown no willingness to entertain offers for a player he sees as integral to the club’s future.
This development will come as a disappointment not only to Benfica but also to Hadj Moussa, whose ambition includes establishing himself in the Algerian national team.
A move to a high-profile club like Benfica might have enhanced his international prospects, but remaining at Feyenoord offers him the stability and playing time he needs to continue developing.
From a sporting perspective, staying in Rotterdam may prove beneficial. The winger is well integrated into the squad and enjoys the full confidence of his coach.
In an environment where he can thrive and maintain consistency, Hadj Moussa could still achieve his goals without an immediate transfer.
For now, any plans of a transfer to Portugal have been firmly shelved. Unless there is an unexpected late shift in the club’s stance or a dramatic change in negotiations, Hadj Moussa will remain with Feyenoord for the 2025/26 season.
Van Persie’s firm position has not only cooled Benfica’s interest but also sent a wider message to clubs across Europe: Feyenoord are not prepared to lose their top talents without a fight.
🚨 Robin Van Persie a mis fin aux exaltations et assure que le talent algérien va rester au Feyenoord ! 🇩🇿👀
“Ce n’est pas le bon moment pour Anis Hadj Moussa de quitter le club.
Je comprends le fait que de nombreux clubs s’intéressent à lui mais nous voulons garder nos… https://t.co/vQpGBlwJxA pic.twitter.com/g5XV2bEyKG
— Instant Foot ⚽️ (@lnstantFoot) July 26, 2025
