Former Arsenal star Robert Pires welcomes fourth child Olivia at 53
Arsenal legend Robert Pires has announced the birth of his fourth child at the age of 53.
The story was published by Harry Brent in the Sport section at 08:29 on 8 November 2026.
Family background
The former France international shared the news with his followers on Instagram on Saturday. He and his new partner welcomed a baby girl named Olivia. Pires posted a black‑and‑white photograph of himself holding his newborn daughter's hand, captioned "Olivia Pires 31/10/2026. Welcome my baby girl." He followed it with another monochrome image showing his partner, whose identity has not been made public, cradling her pregnant bump while sitting beside him.
A third photograph showed Pires leaving hospital with Olivia secured in a baby carrier. The announcement comes two years after Pires ended his relationship with French model Jessica Lemarie. The couple had been together for 21 years and married for 11 before separating.
They have three children together, including 19‑year‑old Theo, who has pursued a career in professional football. The teenager is a former youth captain at Arsenal and currently plays for Metz.
Pires was previously married to his first wife Nathalie for six years. The pair met during his time at Metz before divorcing in 2003 while the midfielder was playing for Arsenal. They did not have any children together.
Reactions from former teammates
A host of former teammates and footballing colleagues were quick to congratulate him. Former Arsenal midfielder Gilberto Silva responded with three heart emojis. Ex‑Chelsea and Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech wrote: "Congratulations, Robert!" Sol Campbell also sent his best wishes, commenting: "Love and happiness!"
Other former professionals also sent congratulations, including Luis Figo. Roberto Carlos also sent congratulations. Franck Ribery also sent congratulations. Emmanuel Eboue also sent congratulations.
Career highlights and retirement
Pires enjoyed a hugely successful six‑year spell at Arsenal after arriving from Marseille in 2000. He made 284 appearances for the Gunners, scoring 84 goals. He helped them secure two Premier League titles and two FA Cups.
He won four major trophies at Arsenal, including two Premier League titles. He was a key member of Arsène Wenger's Invincibles side, which went through the entire 2003/04 Premier League campaign without defeat. He formed a formidable attacking partnership with Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp during his time in north London.
His final appearance for Arsenal came in the 2006 Champions League final defeat to Barcelona. After that he moved to Spanish side Villarreal. Pires returned to English football in 2010, joining Aston Villa.
His time at Villa Park proved brief. He made just nine Premier League appearances during a single season with the club. He officially retired in 2016. He enjoyed a final playing spell with Indian Super League side Goa in 2014.
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