Gilberto still clubless after holiday
January 30, 2014
From the Sambatfoot:
Gilberto Silva still does not know whether he will continue at the Belo Horizonte club this season. The veteran’s contract terminated at the end of 2013 but Atlético have until now opted not to open talks about renewing the contract.
During his holidays in England, the 2002 World Cup winner spent some time training with former club Arsenal, where he played for six years.
“It’s the first time in my career that one of my contracts has finished with my next steps still uncertain. But it’s no problem, because, following the Club World Cup, Atlético returned to Brazil and I went on holiday in Europe. I’ll see what happens this week,” said the player as he arrived back in Belo Horizonte.
The player, who can play at either centre-back or in a holding midfield role, has made no secret of his desire to remain at the Galo and the club has first refusal in any contract negotiations with the player.
“The priority is Atlético, because that’s what my contract stipulates. Everybody knows that my wish is to stay here. Now the decision is in the hands of the club. I believe that this week we will know what’s happening, and I will take things from there. If Atlético don’t want me any more then I will see what options are available.”
It is interesting to guess where Gilberto might end up. Hopefully a club in or near Belo Horizonte – so he can remain close to his family?