Silvestre Completes Move To Gunners

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.

Mikael treasures United memories

Mikael Silvestre is relishing the 'new challenge' of life at Arsenal, but will always have fond memories of his epic United career.

The versatile French defender won 10 major trophies in almost a decade at Old Trafford, but completed a move to the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday evening.

"I’ve spent a large part of my career at United, the last nine years, and I’ll remember that time fondly but feel I’m ready for a new challenge," he told the official Arsenal website.

"Arsenal is known for playing technical and skilful football, and has a young but experienced squad. I’m really excited about this next stage of my career, hopefully playing my part in helping the club to new successes."

Silvestre made 361 appearances for the Reds after arriving from Internazionale in 1999, but becomes the second defender to leave Old Trafford this summer, after Gerard Pique rejoined Barcelona.