Gilberto: Gunners need silverware
August 18, 2008
Re-posted from The Press Association
Gilberto: Gunners need silverware
Brazilian midfielder Gilberto feels Arsenal need to win a trophy this year after three seasons without any silverware – but thinks their barren spell may continue.
The 31-year-old ended his six-year spell with the Gunners earlier this month, agreeing a move to Panathinaikos having struggled to hold down a first-team place last season.
“This is what they need to achieve – start to win things,” he told Arsenal TV Online.
Gilberto’s departure followed the exits of Mathieu Flamini and Alexander Hleb while speculation continues about the future of star striker Emmanuel Adebayor.
With Manchester United and Chelsea having dominated the domestic scene since Arsenal’s last title in 2004, Gilberto is hoping Arsene Wenger’s side can build on an improved showing last term.
He added: “Of course there is massive pressure on them but people cannot forget they are still a young side and they have a lot to improve, to grow and to learn, but it will be very important to them if they win something this year.
“I am sure everyone at the club, Arsene, his staff, the players will do the maximum they can to achieve and win titles. This is the target and they won’t change it.
“But it will be hard again. It won’t be easy because the other teams are stronger than last year and Arsenal will have a hard season but I am confident they will handle it. I hope they can win this year.”