Gilberto would consider leaving Arsenal
October 7, 2007
Gilberto has been speaking to the pesky journalists at The People. Here is what he said:
It’s important to know that the club wants you and values you.
It’s very hard for me to sit on the bench, especially after what I’ve achieved and what I’ve done for the club. It’s a strange situation.
If I’m still not playing much by Christmas, then there might be other options for me to look at seriously.
Nobody has come to me, so right now that is all speculation – if there is anything, I’d expect to be informed by the club.
I’m not looking for a move – it would make me happy to remain here for as long as possible. I will keep doing my job as best I can, whether I get two minutes in a game or 90 minutes.
I haven’t asked the manager for an explanation why I’m not playing – I’m going to wait and see what happens.
I have to respect his decisions and I respect the players who are out there – they are doing a great job.
In my position, Mathieu Flamini has been very strong.
I came back in the summer not quite as fit as the rest of the squad and maybe got left behind a bit, but I’m feeling in great shape now.
I was surprised not to be made captain this season, I have to admit, but Arsene explained later that as I came back so close to the start of the season, he had to give it to somebody else.
There is so much belief in this squad, so much togetherness.
So, this is it. The first time Gilberto has ACTUALLY said he would consider leaving Arsenal before his contract runs out. The tabloids have been reporting this story for years, but today is the first time that it is actually true.
However, despite The People’s claim of this being an “ULTIMATUM” from Gilberto, he also says the following:
– “Right now this is all speculation.”
– “I’m not looking for a move – it would make me happy to remain with Arsenal for as long as possible.”
– “There is so much belief in this squad, so much togetherness.”
Not really that “ultimatum-ish”, then. He’s being quite nice about it.
Let’s also remember that this move away from Arsenal would only materialise if he didn’t recapture his starting place in the team. In my opinion, he will regain his starting place in a few weeks time. He is Gilberto. He is good.