Gilberto on why he chose to leave / Coquelin signs

Midfielder Gilberto Silva, who left the Gunners last week for Greek club Panathinaikos, has explained why he chose to leave the North London club.

Speaking to Arsenal TV, Gilberto said: "I don't know if I'd have had a chance to play this season and then I had this opportunity [Panathinaikos].

"It's a great opportunity in terms of playing games and also contractually.

"I've got three years there and had just one more year left at Arsenal and I considered all these things."

Meanwhile, Arsenal have signed French midfielder Francis Coquelin on professional terms.

The 17-year-old has joined from SASP Stade Lavallois Mayeene MFC.

User Comments

Andre

Posted on 24 Jul, 2008 at 10:06 AM - Reply

Good Luck to you Gilberto. Thanks for helping Gunners to get several throphies!

sam

Posted on 23 Jul, 2008 at 11:07 PM - Reply

and why not Africans Defenders?:S

Slique

Posted on 23 Jul, 2008 at 06:01 PM - Reply

Good luck Gilberto, you have done very well at Arsenal. I am sure you will remain a true gunner at heart. I felt that Mr Wenger decided last season that he did not require your services, however you fought for your place. Like any player who was not regular you were not able to keep up with the rhythm of the team. Flamini is gone as well. We all know that Cesc needs all the support that he can get!!!

Chinege

Posted on 23 Jul, 2008 at 05:37 PM - Reply

What's wrong with Wenger buying Africans?

Matvuar

Posted on 23 Jul, 2008 at 05:03 PM - Reply

Prof. Wenger should buy two central defenders and not africans.Let him try to retain Ade.No team will challenge de GUNNERS.CHEERS.

RVPMPC

Posted on 23 Jul, 2008 at 04:00 PM - Reply

While he was generally a classy man, he wasn't as squeaky clean as everyone says. Do remember that this guy tried to refuse to play vs. Sheffield United when he was deployed as a central defender, forcing Wenger to move him into the midfield. Nonetheless, he was typically a good servant to the club, and I am thankful for his services. This move was always necessary though as he was so far past it that quite honestly he didn't deserve any significant role in the first team, at least based on last year's performances. Thanks anyways Gilberto, and wish you luck on the rest of your career.

elninio

Posted on 23 Jul, 2008 at 03:41 PM - Reply

there is one player who conducted himself with the same grace and humility and he came second in the list of all time greats!!!

Nickolaie

Posted on 23 Jul, 2008 at 03:26 PM - Reply

well...at least we have signings for the central middie position. although i am ready to place my trust in Diaby and denilson

Philip- Kenya

Posted on 23 Jul, 2008 at 02:46 PM - Reply

The gunners must this season give us{the fans} what we deserve.Though we have lost some potential plays I wish the new signings be more than willing to bring the coveted cups to Emirates.........Quick recovery for Kolo and Eduardo.

Jack

Posted on 23 Jul, 2008 at 01:57 PM - Reply

Is there an Arsenal player that has conducted themselves with more grace or humility than Gilberto? I cant think of one that gets near. For that alone we should be very sorry to see him leave.

Bm

Posted on 23 Jul, 2008 at 08:32 AM - Reply

My admire to U is always on Top!!!! Have A Nice Season in Panathinaykos.

salmin

Posted on 23 Jul, 2008 at 08:21 AM - Reply

I would like Wenger to at least buy one more defender to help Toure in the Central incase of Gallas or Senderos absence Iam Graet fan of th gunners from Kenya.I know this season we are going to take the quadrable.

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