Biography
Who is Gilberto Silva?
Early life
Gilberto Silva Aparecido da Silva was born in Lagoa da Prata, Brazil, on October 7, 1976. He grew up in a small house built by his father, who worked as a blacksmith, while his mother was a housewife. He lived with his parents and three sisters in the district of Usina Luciânia, sharing a single room due to financial hardship. Despite limited resources, he spent his early years playing football on the street with friends and cousins.
In 1988, at the age of twelve, Gilberto joined the youth academy at América Mineiro to begin his football training. When he was sixteen, his father retired, leaving Gilberto responsible for providing financially for his family. Because of low wages at the club, he quit football temporarily to work as a labourer, a carpenter, and a sweet factory worker earning a modest monthly income.
Club career
In 1997, Gilberto returned to América Mineiro as a full-time professional and played as a central defender. He helped the team win the Série B division and secure promotion to Série A. In 2000, he transferred to rival club Atlético Mineiro. During his second season there, manager Carlos Alberto Parreira moved him into a defensive midfield role, where he quickly flourished and became a standout player in Brazilian club football.
Following his prominent performances at the international level, Gilberto moved to England to sign for Arsenal in August 2002 for a fee of £4.5 million. During his six years with Arsenal, he established himself as a world-class defensive midfielder and starred alongside Patrick Vieira. He was a key member of the famous Invincibles squad that won the Premier League without losing a single match during the entire season, alongside capturing two FA Cups.
International career
Gilberto represented the Brazil national team at the senior level for nine years, making a total of ninety-three appearances. He featured prominently during the 2002 FIFA World Cup, playing a vital role as his country won the tournament. His strong midfield performances earned him continued selection for subsequent major international tournaments.
He was a core component of the Brazilian squad that won the 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup and later captained the team during their victorious Copa América campaign in 2007. After retaining the Confederations Cup in 2009, he experienced reduced playing time and ultimately retired from international football following the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Birthday and age
Gilberto Silva was born on October 7, 1976, which makes Gilberto 50 years old today. That birthday falls under the Libra sign. Gilberto shares the date with 38 other famous people.
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