Robin van Persie's debut managerial season faced a significant setback when his Heerenveen team suffered a record 9-1 defeat to AZ Alkmaar in the Eredivisie. The loss marks a troubling start for Van Persie, who has achieved only one win in four matches since replacing Kees van Wonderen in May, leaving Heerenveen at 12th in the league standings. Former Tottenham striker Troy Parrott scored four goals during the match, which saw Heerenveen concede seven times in the second half. Van Persie compared this defeat to his own experience of losing 8-2 to Manchester United as an Arsenal player in 2011, emphasizing the importance of resilience in football. Despite the humiliation, he encouraged his players to own the situation and remain proud. The defeat has provoked criticism from fans, with some calling for accountability from the management.