Arsenal have lost one of the key components in their recent resurgence after confirming that sporting director Edu has resigned.
The 46-year-old has overseen a transformation in Arsenal’s transfer policy since rejoining the Gunners in 2019 as technical director before the role was rebranded to its current title in 2022.
“This was an incredibly hard decision to make,” Edu said. “Arsenal has given me the opportunity to work with so many amazing people and the chance to be a part of something so special in the club’s history.
“I’ve loved working with so many great colleagues across our men’s, women’s and academy teams, especially [coach] Mikel [Arteta], who has become a great friend.
“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.”
BREAKING: Sky Sports News understands Edu has agreed a deal in principle to take up a role with Evangelos Marinakis 🚨 pic.twitter.com/bgzxXbedJZ
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) November 4, 2024
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Arsenal ‘so fond’ of Edu
The Gunners have become one of the shrewdest clubs in the market with signings like Martin Odegaard, Gabriel and William Saliba helping them re-emerge as title contenders over the past few seasons.
Edu’s departure will be a major blow to Arteta, while co-chairman Josh Kroenke praised his “immense contribution and dedication to drive the club forward”.
“Everyone at the club wishes him well,” added Kroenke. “We are all so fond of him and the positive energy he brings to everything and everyone.
“Change and evolution is a part of our club. We remain focused on our strategy and winning major trophies. Our succession plan will reflect this continued ambition.”
“A beautiful journey!” ❤
Mikel Arteta in late 2023 on his Arsenal journey with Edu, with the Gunners’ sporting director set to leave the club 🗣 pic.twitter.com/MD9ba4LsXP
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) November 4, 2024
Edu playing career
It has been reported that Edu will take up a role working alongside Greek shipping magnate Evangelos Marinakis, who owns Nottingham Forest, Olympiacos and Portuguese side Rio Ave.
Edu enjoyed a stellar playing career, starting out at Corinthians in his native Brazil, before joining Arsenal and playing a key role in their ‘Invincibles’ side that went through the 2003-04 Premier League season unbeaten.
Spells at Valencia and Corinthians followed before he hung up his boots in 2010.
BBC Sport has reported that Arsenal are set to appoint James King, who previously worked for them but left to become the Professional Footballers’ Association’s general counsel, as director of football operations.
