AGENCIES MUMBAI: Robert Pires, the French and Arsenal legend who was the marquee player for the Indian Super League’s (ISL) Goan franchise FC Goa, has issued a firm rebuttal against coach Zico’s outburst centred on him and Arsene Wenger, calling the Brazilian gaffer’s statements a huge disappointment as the Frenchman believes he had given 100 per cent on the field and was of the opinion his form improved as the tournament progressed.
Zico, now in charge of the franchise for the second edition of the ISL as well, accused the Arsenal manager of misleading the franchise on Pires’ fitness and form, stating, “Last year Wenger said Pires was in good condition to play the ISL but we all know what happened on the field. Wenger’s words don’t hold any weight.”
Now Pires has brandished his sword as well and believes he was never given Zico’s backing.
“I was hugely disappointed to read recent comments by Zico. It became apparent after I signed for FC Goa that as I wasn’t Zico’s player and although I was targeted heavily by the opposition, I felt my performances were improving and my influence was increasing. I always gave 100 per cent on and off the field making the most of a great football and emotional experience in such a great country,” revealed a clearly miffed Pires.
“To be highlighted in this way by someone that I always showed the utmost respect to is hugely disappointing,” Pires expressed.
The former Premier League winner and ‘Invincible’ also explained that the management of the franchise, which constituted of Shrinivas Dempo, Dattaraj Salgaocar, Venugopal Dhoot and Virat Kohli, were quite happy with his performances.
“The ownership group were and continue to be hugely positive about my performances and the value I delivered for their franchise. I am sure they are as surprised as me by this unwarranted outburst,” he claimed.
Finally, he also felt offended by Zico’s outburst against Arsene Wenger, who believes is a modern day great, concluding, “To question Arsene Wenger is also very surprising as he is without doubt one of the great global coaches of this era.”
