18. Mikael Silvestre

The French defender joined Arsenal on a two-year deal from Manchester United for an undisclosed fee in August 2008.

Silvestre, 31, an experienced and versatile player, had been with Manchester United since 1999, winning a host of domestic honours including four Premier League titles, one FA Cup winner’s medal and a League Cup winner’s medal. Silvestre was also part of the UEFA Champions League winning side of 2008 and made a total of 361 appearances for the Manchester side, scoring 10 goals.

Silvestre, who debuted for French national side in 2001, had made a total of 40 appearances for Les Bleus when he joined Arsenal. Highlights of his international career so far are winning the Confederations Cup in both 2001 and 2003 and reaching the World Cup Final in 2006. 

After signing the player, Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger said: “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 Premier League.”

 

MY YEAR

May

Mikael’s only appearance during May was in Arsenal’s disappointing 4-1 defeat against Chelsea on Sunday 10th. In addition he was among the substitutes for a further three of the month’s fixtures.

April

Injuries to Johan Djourou and William Gallas ensured that Mikael played a crucial role in April’s games. The Frenchman featured in the last six games of the month, including clean sheets against Villarreal and Middlesbrough and a goal against Wigan. On April 28, Mikael gave his thoughts on Arsenal’s progression. “There is a talent at Arsenal,” he said. “The difference is that they are growing up together.”

March

Although Mikael did not appear in the first team during March, the Frenchman made his comeback from injury in the Reserves’ 0-0 draw against Chelsea on Monday, March 23. After the game he spoke to Arsenal.com: "It was very good to be back. There have been so many big games and the team is doing well so you want to enjoy that as much as you can and be involved. I am glad of our progress and hopefully I can join in now."

More Mikael Silvestre News