In a remarkable tenure with Arsenal from 2002 to 2008, Gilberto Silva graced the pitch 244 times, becoming an integral part of Arsene Wenger’s legendary ‘Invincibles’—the indomitable side that clinched the 2003/04 Premier League title without suffering a single defeat.
Hailing from his World Cup triumph with Brazil in 2002, Silva transitioned to the Gunners from Atletico Mineiro in August of the same year. He swiftly etched his name in the annals of Arsenal history, netting the decisive goal in his inaugural match, propelling Arsenal to a 1-0 victory over Liverpool to secure the 2002 Charity Shield.
Silva’s legacy was further cemented when he set a record for Arsenal’s quickest Champions League goal, finding the net in a mere 20.07 seconds during a resounding 4-0 triumph over PSV in September 2002. His winning streak continued as he played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s 2003 FA Cup victory, where Robert Pires’ solitary goal was enough to best Southampton at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium, adding another illustrious chapter to Silva’s storied career.
Mikel Arteta is now hoping to replicate those glory years and guide Arsenal to their first title in 20 years.
“It won’t be easy,” admitted Gilberto, who scored four times as Arsenal went unbeaten in the Premier League in 2003/04. “But I do think Arsenal can win the Premier League.
“Last year they came so close. I was very sad for them. I know what it’s like to come close to success then lose. I had it in the 2006 Champions League Final [which Arsenal lost 2-1 to Barcelona in Paris].
“Arsenal has a very good team right now, and there is a hunger to win. When I speak to Edu that’s always clear. So now they need a big effort because it’s not going to be easy to finish above Liverpool and Manchester City.”
Arsenal currently lead the Premier League on goal difference having scored an astonishing 33 times in 2024. And after the international break, they face a potentially season-defining fixture away at third-placed Manchester City on March 31.
“These types of games are the ones football players relish,” said Gilberto. “You need to raise your game and focus. Most players like this. Arsenal has a great opportunity in front of them.”
Arsenal’s formidable run this season can be largely attributed to the acquisition of Declan Rice, the club’s record-breaking £105m signing from West Ham. The English midfielder has been a mainstay in the lineup, featuring in every Premier League match and notching up six goals—a personal best for a single season.
Rice’s evolution is evident in his progressive passing, a skill that has flourished over recent seasons. Mikel Arteta, the tactical mastermind behind the Gunners, had always envisioned a more potent offensive contribution from Rice, a potential that was not fully tapped during his tenure at West Ham.
Reflecting on his own career, Gilberto Silva, who experienced a surge in offensive prowess during the 2006/07 season with 10 Premier League goals, equaled Arsenal’s second-highest league scorer alongside Thierry Henry and just one shy of Robin van Persie. Yet, the now 47-year-old, a steal at £4.5m back in his day, opines that modern defensive midfielders aren’t necessarily gauged by their goal-scoring tally. His perspective offers a nuanced understanding of the role’s evolution and its impact on the beautiful game.
“I hear a lot of pundits say the position has changed, but I’m not so sure,” said Gilberto. “For me, the principles remain the same. I still view Declan as a holding midfielder who protects the back four and gives support to the guys up front. It’s the same job I was asked to do.
“What is really important in the position is the passing. It doesn’t matter how many balls you win back if you then just lose possession. So you need a vision: to know how you’re going to win the ball then what you are going to do with it.
“Declan does this really well. He never runs back or forward without a plan. And physically he’s a monster, and the scary part is he’s still raising his level. I think he’s been amazing for Arsenal. It just feels like he has known the club and its players for a very long time. He’s adapted so fast since joining from West Ham.
“I also believe he can play with either Thomas Partey or Jorginho. I know they play more or less in the same role, but because Rice is adaptable their abilities are complimentary.”
As Arsenal sets its sights on bolstering its attacking options with a new striker, the club also remains vigilant in its pursuit of midfield reinforcements. The Gunners are reportedly considering reigniting their interest in either Douglas Luiz of Aston Villa or Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad.
Arsenal legend Gilberto Silva has expressed his enthusiasm at the prospect of his compatriot Luiz donning the red and white at the Emirates Stadium. However, he harbors concerns that Aston Villa’s valuation could thwart any potential deal. While a £70m fee has previously been floated, there’s speculation that Villa might hold out for a sum approaching the record £105m that brought Declan Rice to North London, should they decide to part ways with their prized midfielder.
“I think he’ll be expensive because he’s in good form,” said Gilberto. “I am just happy to see another Brazilian doing a great job in the Premier League. Any top club would want him right now, so why not Arsenal? I think it would be a great move for the club and for him as well.”
