Arsenal have allowed loyal servant Gilberto Silva to leave with his dignity. The 31-year-old midfielder signed a three-year £6m ($12m) contract with Greek club Panathinaikos, making him the highest paid player in Greece. Arsenal receive about £1m for his transfer.
Gilberto made 244 total appearances in an Arsenal shirt over six seasons, scoring 24 goals. He played pivotally for the 2003-4 invincible team, and won two FA Cups as well. He lost his place at the beginning of the season, and never returned, as he was clearly past his best.
He also serves as captain of the Brazilian squad, with 59 career caps for his country.
Despite the sentimental loss, his departure does not humble Arsenal’s squad, however, it exacerbates their already present depth issues in midfield.
Posted by tyduffy
