Robin Van Persie: Awkward Summer Highlights Situation Destined for Failure

If Arsenal keeps Robin van Persie for the 2012-13 season, things are going to get really awkward.

Like, even more so than they are already. 

We are just over three months removed since RVP scored a double against Norwich, upping his league-leading goal total to a ridiculous 30, but things have quickly gone downhill since that unforgettable season.

The speculation around Van Persie, whose contract lasts for one more season, hit full force as the summer transfer window opened, but it was always, at least for Arsenal fans, positive speculation.

Arsene Wenger was bringing in Lukas Podolski and other talented pieces quicker than ever in order to lure his star striker to stay.

Van Persie made it clear that he wanted silverware and Arsenal was doing everything in its power to provide him with just that. How would he ever be lured away from the Emirates at this rate?

But then the 29-year-old, seemingly out of the blue, had this to say (via ESPN):

"

I've thought long and hard about it, but I have decided not to extend my contract. You guys, the fans, have of course the right to disagree with my view and decision and I will always respect your opinions.

"

Boom. Shockwaves.

Just like that, the man who, at times, single-handedly carried Arsenal to three points and was a huge factor in the Gunners finishing third in the EPL table, the beloved star who was becoming the face of the franchise, the bragging point of most Arsenal fans, was gone. 

Or, he would be gone soon, at least. 

Yet here we are, just 17 days until the transfer window closes, and Robin van Persie is still a member of Arsenal and Arsene Wenger is still reportedly trying to keep him. 

The closest offer on the board right now is reportedly from Manchester United, but even that's far from a sure thing, especially if Wenger is serious about holding on to his disgruntled stud. 

But when a guy says he wants to leave, doesn't he pretty much have to leave? Sure, keeping the talented striker for another year would be nice, but isn't the end game him just leaving after his contract has expired?

Why not get some cash for him now while you can?

Besides, how can the loyal fans continue to support the guy who deemed their team not good enough? How can they support the guy who has already been written off by most? How can the players co-exist with the teammate who believes there are better footballers out there?  

Everyone knows Van Persie wants to be somewhere else, but he'll be forced to play—undoubtedly at less than 100 percent. Isn't that the definition of awkward?

Robin van Persie is a unique talent and a player most teams would love to have, but the relationship between the Dutch striker and Arsenal is no longer sunshine and lollipops. It's no longer "yes, I would love to play for you and give my blood, sweat and tears for this club in the process."

There's no going back to that wonderful place, so what's the point of keeping him? 

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