Mikael Silvestre has completed a transfer to Arsenal for
an undisclosed fee, bringing down the curtain on a nine-year
Manchester United career.
The French defender, who joined from Internazionale in September
1999, made 361 appearances for the Reds, scoring 10 goals and
winning 10 major honours.
Speaking after Silvestre had completed the formalities of his
move, Sir Alex Ferguson told ManUtd.com: “Mikael
was a great servant and a wonderful professional. We wish him all
the best at his new club and thank him for his service.”
Silvestre performed in the centre or left side of defence for
the Reds, but was hit by serious back-to-back injuries in his
United career, suffering a dislocated shoulder and cruciate knee
ligament damage in 2007.
With Patrice Evra established as United’s first-choice left
back, and the central partnership of Nemanja Vidic and Rio
Ferdinand seemingly set in stone, Mikael was unlikely to find
regular first team football at Old Trafford this season.
Arsenal have swooped to add Silvestre’s international experience
to their backline, and the popular Frenchman joins compatriots
William Gallas, Gael Clichy, Bacary Sagna, Abou Diaby, Armand
Traore and Samir Nasri at the Emirates Stadium.
Mikael has penned a two-year deal and will wear the number 18 shirt
for the Gunners.
