Arsenal's Invincibles - Where Are They Now?

Big things were expected of Robert Pires when he rejected Real Madrid and Juventus to sign for Arsenal in 2000. The Frenchman came in as a replacement for Marc Overmars, and initially struggled to adapt to the English game. He did eventually settle, however, and became an integral part of Arsenal's team. 

Pires formed a great relationship both on and off the pitch with striker and compatriot Thierry Henry, and the pair scored 57 goals between them during the 2003/04 campaign. His flair, footwork and pace provided service down the left, and the French international dovetailed with left-back Ashley Cole to devastating effect.

After Arsenal

In 2006, Pires announced he would be departing Arsenal for Villarreal. He spent four years in Spain before a disappointing spell with Aston Villa. He then retired, came out of retirement and headed to India in 2014 to play eight games for FC Goa. 

He is now a free agent at the age of 41, having not officially retired again since his spell in India. He is also an ambassador for Grassroot Soccer, a charity which aims to educate and inspire people, whilst helping to prevent the spread of HIV.