Ex-Arsenal star reveals intriguing new career move and names best Gunners moment

The ex-Arsenal star and two-time Premier League winner Sylvain Wiltord has opened up on his ‘life-changing goal’ while detailing a surprising new career moved in a recent interview with French media outlet Nice-Matin.

The former right winger also detailed how pleased he was to see his ex-Gunners teammate and fellow ‘Invincible’ Thierry Henry succeeding in his coaching career with the Arsenal hero recently guiding France to an Olympic silver medal.

Wiltord first arrived at the Emirates in 2000 and made 174 appearances during his four year stint. He scored 49 goals and contributed a further 30 assists as he won two FA Cups as well as the two domestic league titles. During Arsenal’s ‘Invincibles’ season, the forward made 12 league appearances which was enough to secure him a title winners’ medal.

A month before Wiltord’s arrival in north London, the former Bordeaux and Lyon star had played a crucial role in helping France win the Euros, coming off the bench to score the equaliser in the 94th minute. When asked how this goal changed his life, the ex-footballer said: “I keep hearing about it and it’s a pleasure. It was an extraordinary moment for me, my friends and the France squad. It changed my life and my career. I was able to continue at Arsenal, get advertising contracts… It was my moment of glory. There weren’t many of them.”

“Yes, it’s true, I scored for Arsenal against Manchester United, and we became champions of England [in 2002]. We also took Rennes up to Ligue 1 with a group of young players. Then there were the Lyon titles… Those were magical moments that I’m very proud of too!”

Since retiring from the pitch in 2012 following a season with Nantes, the former right winger has become a qualified padel trainer. When asked what prompted his decision to turn to the rapidly growing sport, the 50-year-old said: I’ve always loved tennis, I used to play a lot, but I had to stop because of a wrist injury. I discovered padel, where the racket is a little lighter.

“I set myself a little challenge when I took the diploma. I teach a little and enjoy it. It’s an extraordinary sport. We’re still behind the Spanish-speaking countries, but we’re going to catch up.”