Former Chelsea and Arsenal cult hero announces shock move to Cypriot champions after leaving Brazilian side

The champions of Cyprus have announced the surprise signing of a Premier League cult hero.

The 38-year-old is best remembered for his time at Chelsea but also went on to spend two seasons with their London rivals Arsenal.

David Luiz spent nine seasons in the Premier League in total before leaving for his native Brazil in 2021.

He spent the second half of last season with Fortaleza but became a free agent on August 1, leaving the club by mutual consent.

And his next move has been confirmed just days later with Pafos announcing that he has joined them on a two-year deal.

A statement from the club, who won the league by seven points last season, read: 'Pafos FC is proud to announce the signing of Brazilian football icon David Luiz, who joins the club on a contract until 2027.

Former Chelsea defender David Luiz (top row, centre) has joined Cypriot champions Pafos

'This landmark transfer marks the most historic moment in Cypriot football — the arrival of a global superstar whose name has echoed in the world’s greatest stadiums.

'From the sacred pitches of Brazil to the brightest stages of Europe, David Luiz’s career is a journey of passion, character, and excellence.

'David Luiz Moreira Marinho is a true titan of modern football. For over 15 years, he has competed at the pinnacle of the sport, earning admiration around the globe for his commanding presence, technical brilliance, and unmistakable charisma. Throughout his illustrious career, he has left a lasting legacy at every club he has represented.

'And now, he brings his unmatched experience, charisma, and warrior spirit to the land of myths, to write a new chapter with Pafos FC.

Luiz re-joined boyhood club Flamengo in 2021 after his contract at Arsenal expired - and he went on to enjoy success in South America.

He made 132 matches for the side in his second spell and helped them win the Copa Libertadores, the Copa do Brasil twice and the Campeonato Carioca.

At club level, Luiz has a CV to envy with a host of trophy wins to boast - including the Champions League, the Europa League, the Premier League title and the FA Cup - plus a clean sweep of silverware in France.

Luiz has spent the past five seasons in Brazil, winning the Copa Libertadores in 2022

He made his name with Chelsea - signing from Benfica in 2010 - and going on to make 143 appearances, before joining PSG for two seasons.

Luiz then returned to Stamford Bridge for a further three years before moving to rivals Arsenal for an £8million fee. He played 73 times for the Gunners, winning the FA Cup in 2019-20.