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“Everything was practically done with Real … and at the last moment, I changed my mind. »» On the click set (Canal+), Robert Pirès lifted the veil on one of the biggest twists in the 2000 transfer window. So in full success after the Euro with the Blues, the attacking midfielder had the luxury of choosing between Real Madrid, Juventus and Arsenal. But the intervention of Arsène Wenger has turned everything upside down.
The phone call that changed everything
“Wenger said to me,” I want you, you have to come to us. ” I'm going to lose Marc Overmars (party at Barça), and you are the only one who can replace him “”, Tells Pirès, smile in the corner. A shock argument for French, seduced by the franchise of the Alsatian technician: “I could have won more at Real, but for six years, I played. What he had promised me was realized. »» Winning bet: 85 goals, 2 Premier League and the invincible era in 2004.
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Pirès dared to say no to the Spanish giant in 2000.
A risky bet … but paying
At the time, saying no to Real held audacity. The Madrid club, already with galacticos (Zidane arrived in 2001), embodied the trophies and visibility guarantee. But Pirès assumes: ”
Real is world number 1. When you face them, you get it. Their aura? They even win by playing badly. »»
An admission that resonates today, while PSG could meet them in the semi-finals of the Champions League.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rzorhgvad8
Mbappé and C1: Pirès Cash
Asked about Kylian Mbappé, the ex-blue boot in touch: “Zero worry for him. His adaptation time? He will mark, he is a big one. »» As for his prognosis for the Champions League: “Barcelona has a great team. But real-psg? Madrid will win … as usual. »»
A loyalty lesson
Twenty-four years after his choice, Pirès regrets anything. Its history with Arsenal, marked by mutual trust, contrasts with current Mercatos, where money often takes precedence. Proof that sometimes listen to his coach rather than his wallet forges a legend.
Written by:
Manu Tournoux is a passionate and knowledgeable football enthusiast with a special focus on French football. Born and raised in France, Manu discovered his love for the beautiful game at a young age and developed a deep understanding of the ins and outs of "Le Championnat." His French roots and extensive experience in football journalism have made him an invaluable asset to the French Football Weekly team.
 
 As an author for the website, Manu's expertise includes not only in-depth analysis of Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 matches but also insightful profiles of up-and-coming talents, detailed transfer news, and engaging coverage of the French national team. His captivating writing style and undeniable passion for the game have earned him a loyal following among our readers.
 
 When he's not crafting engaging articles for French Football Weekly, Manu enjoys attending live matches whenever he can, exploring football culture in various French cities, and engaging in spirited debates with fellow fans. Feel free to follow Manu on Twitter and interact with him as he shares his expert opinions, insights, and love for French football.
