Arsenal legend Robert Pires: ‘I’m going to India for the human experience, not for the money’

Three years after retiring from football, Arsenal legend Robert Pires is taking his boots off the hook to go play for Goa in the nascent Indian Super League, which begins on October 12.

Pires’ decision has been met with some cynicsm in his home country France, wihth many accusing of him of doing it purely for the money.

But the former Gunner dismissed those suggestions as ‘bitter’ and ‘jealousy’, saying he’s doing it for the ‘human experience’, to discover a new country and culture.

‘I always remember what the old boys and coaches used to say when I was young: as long as you can play, keep playing, ‘cos you’ll miss it when it’s over.

I’m still in good shape so I’m ready for it.’
Sure, I’ll be earning money, but that’s part and parcel of the world of football.’