Edu resigns as Arsenal sporting director

Arsenal's sporting director Edu Gaspar resigned on Monday, citing his desire to "pursue a different challenge" after spearheading the Gunners' revival in recent years.

The former midfielder, who was part of the Arsenal side that last won the Premier League in 2003/04, was installed as the club's first technical director in 2019.

The 46-year-old played a key role in the appointment of Mikel Arteta as manager later that year.

Reports suggest the Brazilian could be set for a role working for Greek businessman Evangelos Marinakis, who owns Nottingham Forest and Olympiakos.

"This was an incredibly hard decision to make," Edu said in a statement on Arsenal's website.

"I've loved working with so many great colleagues across our men's, women's and academy teams, especially Mikel, who has become a great friend.

🚨 Edu Gaspar will leave Arsenal as plan will be confirmed soon, he’ll leave his director position at the club.

👀 Nottingham Forest and Olympiacos owner Marinakis has always wanted Edu as a top target to coordinate the group. pic.twitter.com/3Vrmzqwg4L

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 4, 2024

"Now it is time to pursue a different challenge. Arsenal will always remain in my heart. I wish the club and its supporters only good things and all the very best."

Edu arrived back in London five years ago after spells as sporting director at Corinthians and a similar role with the Brazilian national team.

He oversaw a clear out of ageing stars such as Mesut Ozil and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to make way for a younger squad that has thrived under Arteta's leadership, albeit with little silverware to show for it.

Arsenal have not won a trophy since lifting the FA Cup in 2020, but finished second to Manchester City in each of the past two Premier League seasons.