Arsenal sporting director Edu resigns from post​​

Arsenal sporting director Edu Gaspar has resigned from his post, the club confirmed in a statement on Monday.

Edu joined Arsenal in July 2019 as technical director and led a culture shift at the club that saw Mikel Arteta hired as manager and the side battle for the Premier League title in the past two seasons. Edu was later promoted to become the club’s first-ever sporting director in November 2022.

The Brazilian’s tenure as director came after a four-year playing career between 2001 and 2005, during which he won the Premier League title in 2001-02 and 2003-04 under Arsene Wenger.

Sources have told ESPN that Edu has been approached by Nottingham Forest and Olympiacos owner Evangelos Marinakis to lead their multi-club group with an offer that would include a considerably increased salary.

Sources added that talks are at an advanced stage with Edu keen on taking up the position.

Edu communicated his decision to senior club officials at Arsenal’s London Colney training ground on Monday morning, sources told ESPN, with many being surprised at the move given the central role he has played in the north London team’s resurgence.

A source added that it is currently unclear whether there is anything in the terms of his departure which would delay him from taking up another job.

“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 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.”

Arsenal co-chair Josh Kroenke said in the statement: “We respect Edu’s decision and thank him for his immense contribution and dedication to drive the club forward.

“Everyone at the club wishes him well. 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.”

Arsenal suffered their second Premier League loss in three games on Saturday, falling to a 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United at St. James’ Park. That result followed a home draw with Liverpool and a 2-0 reverse at Bournemouth.

The expected return of captain Martin Ødegaard from an ankle injury should boost morale at the north London club ahead of another big week that sees them take on Inter Milan at San Siro on Wednesday before a trip to Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea on Sunday.

Arteta’s team are fifth in the league, seven points behind pacesetters Liverpool.