GILBERTO SIGNS NEW ARSENAL DEAL
September 21, 2005
Gilberto signs long-term contract extension
Arsenal is delighted to announce that Gilberto has signed a long term extension to his contract with the Club until 2009.
The Brazilian midfielder joined Arsenal from Atletico Mineiro in July 2002, shortly after playing in every minute of his country’s triumphant World Cup campaign.
Gilberto (28) has been a vital part of team in his three full seasons with Arsenal. In his time with the Club he has made 120 appearances, winning the Premiership in 2003/04 and the FA Cup in 2003 and 2005.
Everyone at Arsenal is looking forward to enjoying Gilberto’s continued contribution in the forthcoming seasons.
Exciting news! Gilberto will be 34 when the contract runs out! Let’s celebrate!
Talking of his new deal, Gilberto says:
“I like the club, and I don’t need to leave now”
“The main reason I signed the extension is that I am very happy at Arsenal. The Club is going through some important times at the moment and I want to be a part of that.
“I believe the Club has the desire, as do I, to win trophies and I want to be here when we do. Most importantly though, like I said, I am happy at the Club and don’t want to leave.
“The Champions League is an important competition for me. We have to work hard to have a chance to win the trophy but we are capable of it.
“We compete against great players in great clubs but it is possible. However, the other trophies are important as well. The FA Cup and Premiership mean a lot to me and I want to win more. You must always want to win things, to have the desire, and this is something I have.
“London is a nice place. I have settled very well and I love my life here. My family is here with me and they enjoy it as well which is important.
“We are happy together in England and there are many great opportunities for my family and myself here. We have adapted well in this country and there is no reason for me to leave.
Excellent.