2003/04 ‘Invincibles’ legend seeks Arsenal return

Former Arsenal star Robert Pires has set his sights on returning to the Emirates Stadium in the near future, according to The Sun.

The 43-year-old, who has officially retired from football, has admitted he one days wishes to become the Gunners’ sporting director.

The former France international, who won the 1998 FIFA World Cup and 2000 UEFA European Championships, also starred for Metz, Marseille, Villarreal, Aston Villa and Indian Super League outfit FC Goa during his playing career.

Photo: Mark Leech / Offside.

Still training with Arsene Wenger’s squad, Pires said, “I don’t know what will happen in the future, but I need to talk about it with the owners and Wenger.

“I’d love this job, I love to talk with the players. If I’m given this job one day, I can stay in contact with football, especially with Arsenal.

“I have a good relationship with the manager, that’s important. I can work with the players, I can give advice to the young players, so we can find a good relationship between me and the players.”

Pires scored 83 goals in 278 appearances in all competitions for Arsenal between 2000 and 2006.