It’s A Wonderful Life tells the story of a man who wishes he didn’t exist, but goes on to realise that the world is a much better place with him in it.
Frank Capra’s timeless film is a tribute to the selfless man; someone so painfully unaware of his own merits and importance to others that he is crippled and very nearly defeated by his perceived flaws.
But what about the opposite scenario? What if you are so sure and confident of your place and relevance that you battle for change only to realise a better world does exist…but without you?
After Manchester United’s last home game of the 2013/14 season, Robin van Persie said this:
He was positively gleeful after a bitterly disappointing term for both himself and United. David Moyes, the hapless architect of the club’s annus horribilis, had been hastily removed with Ryan Giggs in temporary charge.
Perhaps Van Persie found it hard to conceal his smile out of relief, having scored as a substitute in only his 23rd appearance of the season. Or perhaps he knew precisely who Moyes’ long-term successor would be.
By that time Louis van Gaal was already the strong favourite to be installed as the next permanent boss at Old Trafford, and it’s not inconceivable that Van Persie, the Dutch captain, had an inside track on developments.
Despite official confirmation being some weeks off, there was a sparkle in the striker’s eye. He had been the difference in his first and Sir Alex Ferguson’s final season at United, but Moyes’ brief reign had brought only struggle.
There were those who felt Van Persie didn’t give the Scot his full support. The gone but not forgotten United fanzine Red Issue alluded to friction and disenchantment on a number of occasions.
But now, all that was history. Van Persie could look forward to playing under a familiar face whom he was certain would bring real and positive change – with his favoured international striker at the centre of the revolution.
Van Gaal’s first season was a challenge, but it was successful in achieving the immediate aim of Champions League football.
A strange thing happened as far as Van Persie was concerned, however – he ceased to matter.
Fans who previously lamented his injury lay-offs began to openly hope his return was delayed. Because things started to improve – the team began to click – when their former hero wasn’t around.
And now we have reached an implausible fork in the road. Arguably the most technically-gifted player at the club is surplus to requirements, staring down the barrel of a bit-part role at best.
There is talk of a move to Turkey, or Serie A, where a player who thrives on idolisation may be able to rediscover his spark. One thing is for sure, though – the striker is no longer the king of the castle at Old Trafford.
Van Persie dreamt of a brighter tomorrow. He expressed giddy optimism at what the future may hold. What his ego and ambition failed to foresee was a better world, without him in it.
