ROBERT PIRES has revealed he rejected the chance to join Rangers when he left Arsenal – because of his MUM.

The French World Cup winner signed for La Liga outfit Villarreal after his Gunners deal expired in 2006.

2 Pires has revealed he was approached by Rangers in 2006 Credit: Kenny Ramsay - The Sun Glasgow

Then Gers boss Paul Le Guen tried to persuade him to move to Ibrox but Pires wanted Spanish mother Maribel to see him play in her country’s top division.

He said: “In 2006 my manager spoke with someone from Rangers but I chose to go to Villarreal.

“I don’t know if it was a good choice but for me it was important because my mum is Spanish and it was important to see her son could play in La Liga.

“As a player it’s good when you receive offers from clubs such as Rangers. Everyone knows in Europe they are a very good club and especially in Scotland.

2 He opted for a move to Villarreal due to his Spanish mother Credit: PA:Press Association

“It was an honour to receive this offer. It was at the time of Paul Le Guen. I had to make a decision and at that moment it was Spain and Villarreal.”

Pires will play in Glasgow when he skippers a Rest of the World side at the Star Sixes, a competitive six-a-side tournament for international legends at the SSE Hydro in January.

Scotland last featured in a major finals at France 98, when Pires played a part in helping the hosts go all the way.

He was also in his country’s Under-21s squad at the 1996 Euro finals, the last time Scotland qualified at that level.

Pires reckons chiefs here need to examine the way things are done in his homeland.

He added: “In France we have great talent. But if you want to find that talent and maximise it then you need good academies.

“When you play for Scotland the shirt can be heavier because the pressure isn’t really the same.

“For the Scottish federation the most important thing isn’t the professional level but young players.

“I don’t know if the structure in France is the best in the world for young players but it’s one of the best.

“You need talent but you also need to find it. Kylian Mbappe came from a small team but you need to go and watch.

“Should the SFA look at French set-up? I’m not arrogant but I think yes.”

Star Sixes reunites the world’s greatest players in national team colours to renew old rivalries in six-a-side action.

SSE Hydro, Glasgow, January 4-6. Tickets from £20/£10 at www.thessehydro.com

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