Robert Pires

Arsenal legend and French World Cup winner.

Robert Emmanuel Pires (born 29 October 1973) is a French former professional footballer. He is widely regarded as one of Arsenal's greatest ever players and considered by some to be one of the best wingers in the history of the sport.

Quick Facts

Full name: Robert Emmanuel Pires
Born: 29 October 1973
Birthplace: Reims, Marne, France
Height: 1.85 m / 6 ft 1 in
Position: Winger, attacking midfielder
Total caps: 565
Total goals: 134

Lore & Background

Pires played for French clubs Metz and Marseille prior to his time with Arsenal, where he won three FA Cups and two Premier League titles, including the club's unbeaten season of 2003–04. A former France international, Pires earned 79 caps between 1996 and 2004 for his country, including winning both the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000. He has been included in the PFA Team of the Year for the 2001–02, 2002–03 and 2003–04 seasons, was the Player of the Tournament for the 2001 FIFA Confederations Cup, FWA Player of the Year for the 2001–02 season, Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year for the 1995–96 season, and was included in the FIFA 100 by Pelé. He was also voted by Arsenal fans as the sixth greatest player in the club's history.

Reader's Guide

Pires played the majority of his career as a left winger, but could also play all across the midfield or in a position to support the forward line. Following his retirement, Pires returned to Arsenal as an individual coach and later as a coach in Baller League.

Did You Know?

Pires won the Coupe de la Ligue with Metz, not with Marseille.
Pires scored a hat-trick against Southampton on the penultimate day of the 2002–03 season.
Pires scored the winner in the 2001 FA Cup semi-final against Tottenham, but Arsenal lost the final to Liverpool.
Pires scored in the 2004–05 FA Cup semi-final against Blackburn Rovers and won the FA Cup that season.