Gilberto Silva is relishing getting back on the pitch at StriveAid this Saturday and is "feeling good" despite a lack of football played this year.
The Arsenal legend is one of two members of the 'Invincibles' who will be in action at Worthing FC's Sussex Transport Community Stadium tomorrow. He's joined by Sol Campbell to take part in the charity match for its third annual match.
Gilberto is a Striver ambassador and co-founder alongside Brazilian legend Roberto Carlos. He has made clear just how important it is to participate in the charity match which supports mental health and suicide prevention initiatives.
'I Feel Good' - Gilberto Ready For StriveAid
Gilberto and Striver Founder Tim Chase appeared on BBC Radio Sussex to discuss StriveAid 2026. Fans will undoubtedly be wanting to know whether the Arsenal icon is ready to anchor his team's midfield tomorrow and they have their answer.
The 2002 World Cup winner might not be crunching into tackles against the likes of former England captain Steven Gerrard. But he's excited to be sharing the pitch with Campbell and massive content creators including Manny and Jaackmate:
"To be honest, I feel good. You know, in spite of fact, I don't play football so much during the year. Maybe maximum or five times a year, maximum during the last few years. But when I have an opportunity like this, especially for the charity events, it's always something very significant for me, and there is a kind of way to give back for the community when you support a charity company."
Gilberto added: "You know, I understand how fast it is for them. You know, to to work in this process, you know, support the community, but it's always great, you know, to be on a football field again and see some other players. You know, the content creators, you know, the excitement from everyone, and it's fantastic to see also the audience who came by, just to enjoy, but also supporting us."
The Brazilian has one assist to his name and will surely be eager to get himself on the scoresheet for the first time in StriveAid history. He will be playing with some of the most talented content creators not just on social media but on a football pitch who could help him lead Team Gilberto to victory.
From Highbury Battles to Worthing 'Enjoyment'
Gilberto spent years playing at the highest level and competing for major honours. He ended his career in 2015 as a World Cup and Premier League winner. His peak came at Arsenal under Arsene Wenger and alongside Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira.
StriveAid won't quite match the level of competitiveness as top-flight football, but times like this give Gilberto the chance to enjoy the sport he once took up as a profession.
Gilberto reflected on his time at Arsenal and how he is now playing the game with joy:
"What we had at the club back in the days was fantastic. You know, some great achievements, great people around. Most important for me to for all the people around the club at that time, which was amazing. But now you know it's like having these opportunities to be back on the field and play. It's like when I play amateur football before the professional time came on for me. Just enjoying life, enjoying your football, enjoy being among those guys, you know, having fun."
The Brazilian did acknowledge that there are players who will be eager to win: "I understand sometimes for some of the guys they too serious because, like you know, they want to to have a good day and not be disappointed. And for me, it's just enjoy, enjoy."
Football wouldn't be where it is without it's fans and Gilberto highlighted how tomorrow's venue allows him to feel closer to those in attendance:
"The intimate stadium, you know, because we are so close to people. It's very nice because you can talk to them, you know, in a safe environment. In a you know, it's very cozy place where everyone you know feel close to each other. It was amazing experience, you know. But obviously, you know, it's a totally different scenario. Back in the days, playing on a bigger stadium, you know, a different purpose. But now having this opportunity to join the guys, you know, I really enjoy."
Get Your StriveAid 2026 Tickets
With Roberto Carlos, Gilberto Silva and a growing group of creators preparing to take to the pitch, StriveAid 2026 promises a full day of football, community and entertainment at Worthing FC.
Tickets are now available through Fanbase.
