Former French international and Arsenal midfielder Robert Pires, who has been signed on as FC Goa’s marquee player for the inaugural Indian Super League, on Wednesday stepped onto the ground at Tilak Maidan here for his first training session with the team.
“It’s been a good first day. It’s a good feeling. I’m excited about the ISL and I think it’s going to be a big success. It’s an honour being coached by the legend Zico. I’ve enjoyed my first day of training,” Pires later said.
Speaking about his thoughts on Goa and India, he said, “I received a warm welcome in Mumbai when I arrived and in Goa when I landed yesterday. It was nice to see so many fans who came to welcome me. I didn’t expect it. It was a pleasure. Thank you very much for the welcome.”
Pires was part of the French national squad which won the 1998 FIFA World Cup and the 2000 Euro. He also represented France in the 1996 Olympic Games.
As a player, Pires peaked during his six-year stint at Arsenal from 2000-06, where he was part of the squad which won three FA Cups and two Premier League titles. He was also a part of the Arsenal squad nicknamed ‘The Invincibles’ which remained unbeaten through the season 2003-04.
Pires has played over 500 games in his career spanning over two decades. In the 79 games he played as a French international, Pires scored 14 goals.