Former Arsenal star Robert Pires looks set to turn down an offer from MLS side Philadelphia Union after claiming that the city does not match the aesthetic standards worthy of him and his family. The former French international looks set to choose between a continuation of his career in the United States or retirement, after publically declaring his intention to end his stint in Spain with Villarreal.
Speaking in the French press, the former veteran midfielder did hint that he could be persuaded to test himself alongside former Arsenal legend Thierry Henry in the Big Apple, after Barcelona confirmed that the Highbury hero was in negotiations with the New York Red Bulls.
Henry and Pires played together as part of Les Bleus’ successful World Cup and European Championship sides of 1998 and 2000 while also helping Arsenal to the Premier League title in 2002 and 2004. Close friends off the pitch, Henry even namechecked his cohort in the closing scene of a famed Renault advert aired on British television.
Reflecting on his ambitions for the future and the offer laid out on the table by the Philadelphia Union, Pires stated:
“It does not please me. I do not want to be difficult, but left to take my family away, I'd rather do it in a beautiful city. Otherwise, I will put an end to my career.
Responding to suggestions that a deal could be done which would see him link forces with Henry again, Pires responded more positively: "I wish him to go there. That is a beautiful city."