The Brazilian enjoyed a magnificent 2006/07 campaign and was
without doubt one of the Gunners' players of the season, but this
year saw an almost dramatic slide in his physical conditioning and
precision of passing, as he fast found himself out of the side on
an almost permanent basis, replaced by Mathieu Flamini.
There were rumours that being superceded for the captaincy - which
went to controversial newcomer William Gallas - affected Gilberto's
morale and there were rumours of a move to Juventus earlier in the
season.
He has managed to retain his place in the Brazil side, though, and
insists that he is happy to stay at Arsenal. With Mathieu Flamini
having left the club for Milan on a free transfer, it may yet be
revealed that the veteran gets a second chance to re-establish
himself in defensive midfield, though rumours are ongoing that a
replacement is being scouted for.
"I do want to stay," insisted Gilberto. "It depends when I come
back if Arsene wants me to stay.
"I still have one year left on my contract. I'm happy to stay at
the club. I will wait until I return to London and pre-season
training on 21 July and then I will sit down and talk about
it."
