It was long known that 2012-13 would be Alex Ferguson’s last season as manager in charge for Manchester United. The downfall of Red Devils was already foreseen but what was doubtful was whether or not the Boss wins Premier League in his last season.
Like he had been doing for a long time in his career, he fought with Arsene Wenger again but got the better of his compatriot. Thanks to a stunning season stealing signing from Arsenal – Robin Van Persie.
The transfer of Premier League’s most anticipated striker to Manchester United is still a shock for many. The Dutchman gained a lot of liking at London already and was on the verge of scoring 100 goals for the club but left with four short. Why? It is still a mystery.
Even in 2012, the Dutchman stated his adamance to stay at Arsenal amidst growing speculations of a move next year. His consistent performance and goal-scoring prominence kept on increasing every season and if he would have stayed at Arsenal in 2012-13 season, the trophy would surely have been theirs.
But the talisman chose Manchester United even after scoring 35 goals in single season for the Gunners. A feat untouched by many and only one short of breaking Alan Shearer’s record. His days at Arsenal were improving; still he chose United. His record were enhancing; still he chose United and therefore I repeat, ”Alex Ferguson stole the Premier League TROPHY 2012/13 from Arsene Wenger.”
The Dutch striker had won innumerable games for Arsenal from 2004-2012 but had saved his best for the season 2012/13 which he performed under Alex Ferguson. He was purchased by the Red Devils for £22.5 million for a four-year contract until 2016.
Again, Alex Ferguson had placed his trump card for the last. The duo of Van Persie and Wayne Rooney was called to destroy every single team in the Premier League and so they did.
Playing for United, Van Persie scored 26 goals in the Premier League season alone and repaid every penny that was paid on him. He started his goal-scoring spree in his second game for United and there was no stopping then.
Van Persie was on the scoring sheet against almost every team in the Premier League and stepped up whenever his team needed him the most. He netted a late penalty in a 2-1 win against Liverpool on September 23 and gained 3 important points for the club followed by a goal against Chelsea that went in courtesy a David Luiz deflection and led to a 3–2 win.
He also was on scoresheet against his former club proving his mettle once more. In his first Manchester Derby too, he proved instrumental scoring a late free kick the eventually won the game for Manchester United ending the scoreline 3-2.
He even netted a first-half hat-trick for the club against Aston Villa on April 22 and ensured Manchester United’s 20th league cup (the reason why he chose number 20).
He was even named as the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year for the 2012–13 season and was also nominated by UEFA into the 10-man shortlist for the 2012–13 Best Player in Europe award.
The Dutchman helped Alex Ferguson end his footballing managership on a high note and will always have a special heart in Manchester United fans.
