Gilberto Silva

Defender Gilberto Silva was spotted playing football on the streets of Brazil. The promising player became known as ‘The Invisible Wall’ thanks to an inconspicuous style of shadowing his opponents rather than tackling them. His approach saw him become a successful member of Brazilian league teams, eventually joining the national side where he was instrumental in Brazil’s 2002 FIFA World Cup win. Playing internationally for the senior team for nine years, Silva also lifted the FIFA Confederations Cup twice and captained the squad that won the Copa America.

After his performance in the 2002 World Cup, Silva’s ability was acknowledged globally and he subsequently joined Arsenal under manager Arsène Wenger. Making 170 appearances for the Gunners, he was considered one of the best defensive midfielders in the world alongside pitch partner Patrick Viera. Silva was massively instrumental in two FA Cup triumphs and the legendary 2003-2004 season at Highbury, which saw Arsenal ending their Premier League campaign as undefeated champions with a record of 26 wins and 12 draws – the first team ever to do so.

Silva retired from professional football in 2013 but remains perpetually involved in the game, serving as Technical Director for a Greek team in 2016 and as patron of The Street League, a charity which uses football and sport to help homeless and disadvantaged young people find employment and advance their lives.