Van Persie treble fires Manchester United to 20th title

Manchester United striker Robin van Persie celebrates after scoring the opening goal in Monday's 3-0 win over Aston Villa.

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Dutch delight

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STORY HIGHLIGHTS

• Robin van Persie nets all three goals as Manchester United clinch English title
• Monday's 3-0 win over Aston Villa ends the Premier League reign of Manchester City
• Win puts United 16 points clear of second-placed City with four games to play
• Van Persie moves to top of EPL scoring charts with 24 goals this season

(CNN) -- All the talk this season has been that Robin van Persie is the difference between winning the English Premier League title, or not.

Roberto Mancini wanted to sign him after his Manchester City side won a first championship in 44 years on the final day of the 2011-12 campaign. Much to his chagrin, even the deep pockets of the club's Abu Dhabi owners could not tempt the Dutchman.

Even worse for the Italian, and for Arsenal fans hoping he would stay in London, the 29-year-old decided to join Manchester United for what has proved to be a bargain initial $34 million.

Having never won a title at any of his previous clubs, the striker opted for Old Trafford -- and it has paid off handsomely.