4. Moyes’ Handling of Robin van Persie
Robin van Persie had been the most important player for United in their title-winning campaign in Sir Alex’s final season. The Dutchman finished as the leading goalscorer in the Premier League and had captured the United faithful’s imagination in his first season at Old Trafford.
However, things did not go well for the former Arsenal striker under the new leadership of David Moyes. It was often spoken about in media how Moyes overworked Van Persie in training, failing to understand the requirements of the fitness regime that the 30-year old striker’s body needed and as a result burning him out. The Flying Dutchman struggled with his fitness as a result, the goals dried up for him, and there was a sense of unrest growing between him and the new manager. Moyes’ lack of understanding and proper treatment of Van Persie was one of the biggest errors he made in his short stint at United.