Brazilian · Lagoa da Prata, Brazil · Born 7 October 1976The 'Invisible Wall' — a disciplined Brazilian holding midfielder whose tireless work rate anchored Arsenal's 'Invincibles' season.
Gilberto Aparecido da Silva was born in Lagoa da Prata, Brazil on 7 October 1976. He won the 2002 World Cup with Brazil before joining Arsenal for £4.5 million. His exceptional positioning, tactical intelligence and selfless work off the ball earned him the nickname 'The Invisible Wall.' He was a key member of the 'Invincibles' squad that went the entire 2003-04 season unbeaten. He made 244 appearances for Arsenal, winning the Premier League and two FA Cups. He also played for Atlético Mineiro, Panathinaikos and Grêmio. He earned 93 caps for Brazil.
Key player in Arsenal's unbeaten Premier League season 2003-04
He scored Arsenal's first-ever goal at the Emirates Stadium, heading in against Aston Villa on the ground's inaugural match day in 2006.
Did You Know?How They Played
Defensive midfielder known for work rate, tackling, and intelligent positioning
Lasting Impact
Regarded as one of the finest defensive midfielders of his generation
Career Honours
- World Cup 2002
- Premier League 2004
- FA Cup 2x
- Invincibles 2004
- FA Cup 2003
- FA Cup 2005
| Club | Period | Fee | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlético Mineiro | 1999–2002 | — | 37 | 1 | #19 |
| Arsenal | 2002–2008 | £4.5m | 86 | 9 | #11 |
| Panathinaikos | 2008–2011 | — | 126 | 7 | #11 |
| América Mineiro | 1997–1999 | — | 0 | 0 | — |
| Grêmio | 2012–2013 | — | 41 | 2 | — |
 Brazil | — | — | 93 | 3 | — |
Brazilian Athletes