Villarreal Clinch Pires Signing

Robert Pires has ended his six-year association with Arsenal after he joined Spanish side Villarreal.

The 32-year-old French midfielder, who won the World Cup in 1998, had hoped to extend his stay with the Gunners as they prepared for the start of a new era at the Emirates Stadium, but wanted the security of a longer-term deal rather than a 12-month extension which was on offer.

In all, Pires made a total of 284 appearances for Arsenal, scoring 84 goals following his £6million move from Marseille during the summer of 2000, when he also helped Les Bleus to European Championship glory.

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Delighted to see the back of him, one player i NEVER liked.

Fantastic on his day and a great scoring record for a midfielder. It was the right time to go though.

Unfortunately his days were numbered in London. It was probably the right time to leave in order to have a new challenge in his carreer.
If he settles quite rapidly, I think he should do well