EPL: Manchester United Defender Mikael Silvestre Joins Rival Arsenal
August 21st 2008 13:27
The versatile defender hopes to see first-team action with the Gunners
In a move that was finalized yesterday, Silvestre signed a two-year deal with the Gunners which will see him play alongside fellow countrymen William Gallas, Bacary Sagna, Gael Clichy, and Armand Traore.
Despite the rivalry between the two teams, the transfer actually makes sense. Indeed, after nine years as a Red Devil, Silvestre was mainly reduced to the role of benchwarmer with Patrice Evra being the team's first-choice left-back while Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic's partnership became the cornerstone of United's defense. Arsenal has a bunch of defenders at their disposal but none of them have the consistency or experience to lead the Gunners to the highest honors. Silvestre, with his 361 appearances in the United shirt, will provide depth and a much-needed stability in Arsenal's defensive brigade. As for Manchester United, the defender's departure leaves the door wide open for youngster Fabio Da Silva to step in as Evra's back-up while Jonny Evans can get some experience as Vidic and Ferdinand's back-up.
Silvestre will wear the number 18 for Arsenal.
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