Gilberto Silva announces retirement
Saturday, December 12th, 2015Gilberto Silva has announced his retirement from football.
“As of today, I have ended my career as an athlete. It’s a difficult decision.
“Worldwide, we do not ask to be born. When we are born, we do not want to die. I’ve heard a phrase that says footballers die twice. I disagree. I think the football player dies once, and makes a transition from the field to a new stage. For me, it’s a time of transition, not a first death.
“No matter how painful it may be — it’s a moment that could be seen as a sad, difficult time — but I see it with great joy. I’ve enjoyed 20 years of great joy. That’s what it has been for me and my family.”
Over the past two years, Gilberto has spent time in Brazil struggling with a bad knee injury.
Unable to play, he has been working prominently on TV for ESPN. He has also spearheaded the Bom Senso FC movement (Good Sense FC) which campaigns for rights and improvements to standards for professional footballers of big clubs in Brazil.
Following a legal dispute with Atletico Mineiro, he was destined to return to his childhood club, América Mineiro, to see out his career. Hut having realised that his knee will never mend, he has opted to throw the towel in.
Clearly, he has a future as a spokesperson in the game, but what else is there? In 2014, Arsenal offered Gilberto the opportunity to do coaching qualifications and work with the club. He declined because he hadn’t yet retired from playing, so he may end up back in London working in Wenger’s setup – this time the other side of the touch line.
Another option for Gilberto would be to join América Mineiro as director of sport – something which the club’s president has suggested himself.
There must just so much he can do – and so much value he can offer clubs and younger players.
This fan congratulates Gilberto on his amazing playing career, and wishes him the best of luck in the next chapter of his career and life.