In recent years, the fixture between Liverpool and Manchester City has turned into one of the Premier League’s most high-profile matchups.
Throughout the era of Pep Guardiola and Jürgen Klopp, their meetings routinely brought some of the best football ever seen in England’s top division.
Since Klopp left Liverpool in 2024, though, things have shifted. Guardiola hasn’t quite managed to recapture that same edge with City either.
And ahead of Sunday’s clash at Anfield, one figure from Arsenal’s last title-winning squad was spotted attending Arne Slot’s press conference.
Gilberto Silva seen at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre
It’s been 22 years since Arsenal fans last saw their famous Invincibles lift the Premier League trophy back in 2004.
The side was full of household names, with the likes of Thierry Henry, Patrick Vieira and Dennis Bergkamp all starring.
Also part of that team was Brazilian World Cup winner Gilberto Silva, who featured 32 times in the league that season.
This wasn’t tied to any role or connection with either club—he was simply there ahead of Liverpool’s match against Manchester City.
Gilberto Silva makes appearance at Liverpool’s training ground
It’s been over two decades since Arsenal fans last celebrated a Premier League title, with memories of the iconic ‘Invincibles’ squad still fresh in many minds.
The likes of Thierry Henry, Patrick Vieira, and Dennis Bergkamp are often the first names mentioned from that era, but Gilberto Silva also played a significant role, featuring 32 times during that unbeaten campaign.
While he has no direct ties to either side involved in this weekend’s match, Gilberto was spotted at Arne Slot’s pre-match press conference on Thursday. His presence was noted by journalist Paul Gorst, who posted:
“At AXA Training Centre to hear from Arne Slot at 9am. Brazil and Arsenal legend Gilberto Silva also here this morning.”
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
