MANCHESTER United's French defender Mikael Silvestre has signed for Arsenal on a two-year deal for an undisclosed fee. Silvestre had spent nine seasons under Sir Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford but his move south to North London means he joins up with manager Arsene Wenger whose defensive options will have increased with his signature.The United contract of the 31-year-old, who missed a large part of last season with knee ligament damage, was set to expire next season. He had been linked with a move to Bordeaux and Manchester City during the summer but opted to move to the capital city instead.
With his contract set to expire in 2009 Ferguson has allowed Silvestre - who is the first player to leave United for Arsenal since Brian Kidd 34 years ago - to join one of their major Barclays Premier League rivals.
Arsenal though are short on experience and Wenger cited Silvestre's ability to fulfil several defensive positions as the two factors behind the deal.
“We have a strong squad but a young squad and Mikael's versatility, experience and calibre will provide the extra depth we need to reinforce our challenge for honours this season. His defensive adaptability will serve us well and it's a big plus that Mikael has top-level experience and a great understanding of football in the (Barclays) Premier League.” Wenger said.
Ferguson signed Silvestre from Inter Milan in 1999 after he began his career with Rennes who he left for the San Siro in 1998.
Silvestre enjoyed considerable success with the Red Devils and won four Barclays Premier League titles, an FA Cup winner's medal and a League Cup winner's medal in his 361 appearances with the club.
But his final season at United was hampered by a knee ligament injury sustained against Everton in September 2007 which restricted him to just six competitive appearances.
Silvestre, who has also won 40 caps for France and was part of the squad which reached the World Cup final in 2006, is looking forward to a new phase in his career.
Silvestre looks set to go in to the Arsenal squad ahead of the side's Barclays Premier League match at Fulham on Saturday,
“I've spent a large part of my career at United, the last nine years, and I'll remember that time fondly but feel I'm ready for a new challenge. Arsenal is known for playing technical and skilful football, and has a young but experienced squad. I'm really excited about this next stage of my career, hopefully playing my part in helping the club to new successes.'' said Silvestre who has been handed the number 18 shirt.
No comments:
Post a Comment