Brazilian international midfielder Gilberto has ended a successful six-season stay at Arsenal FC by joining Panathinaikos FC on a three-year contract for a fee of €1.5m.
'Huge contribution'
The 31-year-old joined the Gunners from CA Mineiro in 2002 after playing a starring role in Brazil's FIFA World Cup success. Gilberto went on to play 244 games in all competitions for Arsenal, scoring 24 goals, winning the Premiership in 2004 and the FA Cup in 2003 and 2005. A statement on the Arsenal website said: "Everyone at Arsenal would like to thank Gilberto for his huge contribution to the club both on and off the pitch, and wish him the very best for the future."
'Lost for words'
Gilberto said: "This is a new chapter in my career and I believe that it will be successful. Upon coming here I've realised the ambition of the club. I'm fully aware of Panathinaikos' expectations and I'm confident the club will enter its second century successfully. I'm lost for words trying to thank the fantastic fans who welcomed me to the airport yesterday. I will respond by giving 100 per cent on the field while always having an eye on the club's goals." His new club will return to the UEFA Champions League later this month as they join the competition in the second qualifying round.
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