Former Arsenal and Real Madrid stars' sons sign with Dutch giants

At the beginning of the 21st century, Robin van Persie and Rafael van der Vaart began their football careers at Feyenoord and Ajax, respectively. Later, they made outstanding careers, as Van Persie captained Arsenal and played at Man United before ending his career at his boyhood club, while Van der Vaart left his mark in Real Madrid and Tottenham's jerseys.

Good old times when Assou-Ekotto and Van der Vaart had a fight in the showers

The two even reached the 2010 FIFA World Cup final with the Netherlands, where they lost to Spain 1-0 after extra time. However, although both Robin and Rafael hung up their boots long ago, their "football lineage" will continue to live, as their sons signed deals with the clubs where they made their first steps.

Van der Vaart's son, Damian, signed a new contract with Ajax until 2029. The club from Amsterdam thus showed belief in the 18-year-old even though he has yet to debut for the senior squad. Only a few days later, Van Persie junior, Shaqueel, extended his deal with Feyenoord until June 2028.

Nepo babies or not, time will tell, but the football heritage of two legends, Van der Vaart and Van Persie, will continue to live through their sons, who are yet to show if they are capable of filling their dads' shoes.