Arsenal are once again top of the Premier League table and looking like genuine contenders, but comparisons with the club’s famous 2003/04 Invincibles side continue to resurface. For Gilberto Silva, one of the cornerstones of that unbeaten campaign, the current generation must carve out their own story rather than live in the shadow of history.
The Brazilian midfielder, speaking to Marca, acknowledged Arsenal’s excellent start under Mikel Arteta, who has guided his side to 16 points from seven matches with just one defeat so far — that coming against closest rivals Liverpool. The Gunners have already narrowed what was a five-point gap to the champions thanks to slip-ups by Arne Slot’s side against Crystal Palace and Chelsea.
Despite three consecutive second-place finishes, Arteta has invested heavily to refresh the squad, ensuring Arsenal remain in the title conversation. Big signings over the summer were part of the Spaniard’s determination to go one better this season. Yet, for Silva, the focus must remain firmly on the present, not the past.
Gilberto Silva: Arsenal must write their own story
Silva was part of the iconic Invincibles midfield alongside Patrick Vieira, a partnership that embodied Arsenal’s resilience and control during the historic 2003/04 campaign. He is proud of those achievements, but insists the current squad should not be measured against them.
“I never liked the comparison because what we did was fantastic; those were different times. I think they have to manage on their own now. It’s a different situation. Of course, they have a very good team, quality players, and they still have to build a reputation.” — Gilberto Silva
The Brazilian’s comments highlight the pressure Arsenal’s players now face. With the club chasing their first Premier League crown in over two decades, Silva believes the current squad must earn recognition in its own right.
Arsenal’s current position
Arteta’s men have shown consistency at the start of the 2025/26 campaign. The squad looks deeper and more balanced than in previous seasons, with summer arrivals boosting competition for places. Yet the challenge will be sustaining their momentum through the winter months, when title races are often shaped.
The north London club have not lifted the Premier League trophy since Silva and company achieved the unthinkable by going unbeaten. While those memories remain a source of pride, Silva stressed that nostalgia should not define the present.
Analyst verdict: right words at the right time
FootballPlace analyst John William sees Silva’s comments as a timely reminder for Arsenal fans and players alike:
“Gilberto is absolutely right. Arsenal’s current squad are strong in their own right, and while comparisons with the Invincibles make good headlines, they add unnecessary weight. Arteta’s team need to focus on building their own winning culture — one rooted in today’s challenges, not yesterday’s glory.”
Key insights
- Arsenal are top of the Premier League with 16 points from seven games.
- The Gunners have already closed the gap on Liverpool after rivals dropped points.
- Gilberto Silva insists Arteta’s squad must stop comparisons with the Invincibles.
- Arsenal last won the title in 2003/04, finishing that campaign unbeaten.
- Pressure is mounting after three consecutive seasons as runners-up.
What’s next for Arsenal?
The Gunners face a critical period in October and November, where tough league fixtures and Champions League tests will push the squad’s depth and resilience. Arteta’s objective is clear: keep pace at the top and prove they can handle the pressure of expectation.
For Silva, the challenge is not recreating the past, but writing a new chapter in Arsenal’s history. If Arteta’s men can turn consistency into silverware, their reputation will stand on its own — without the shadow of the Invincibles.
👉 Do you agree with Gilberto Silva — should Arsenal stop the Invincibles comparisons and focus solely on building their own legacy?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *