Gilberto:"I came here to win titles" (plus photos in Greece)

By 1970’s Gooner

What we have been reporting for some time now has finally come to a close with Gilberto putting pen to paper and signing a three year contract for Greek club Panathinaikos.

Speaking to the Greek media he admitted a hunger for winning titles again.

“Even if I won trophies with Arsenal and Brazil I'm still hungry to win more titles. I came to Greece because I have big ambitions, and it's very important for me to be able to continue to give my best” he said.

This comes after a three year barren period with Arsenal. Gilberto was a key part of the “invincibles” side that went through the 2003-04 Premier League season undefeated.

As well as that season’s league title, Gilberto also won the FA Cup twice and was captain on numerous occasions.

“When the Panathinaikos people outlined their plan for the future of the club and their ambitions I was impressed and I couldn’t but agree to their offer” he said.

He was also very impressed with the warmth and enthusiasm that he has received by the fans when he arrived.

“The reception was something fantastic. I didn’t expect it. I hope the fans show the same enthusiasm during the games” he continued.


Panathinaikos will participate in the second qualifying round of the Champions League but Gilberto will not be fully fit to play in that game.

"I'm sure we will qualify through to the group stages of the Champions League and I'm exited about being a Panathinaikos player" he said.

If however Panathinaikos gets through then there is a chance of a meeting against Arsenal in the next round and for Gilberto to play against his old club.

Gilberto’s league debut will be against his pal Rivaldo who plays for AEK Athens.



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