Arsenal: Edu leaves role as club's sporting director

Edu has stepped down from his position as the sporting director of Arsenal.

The Brazilian returned to the Gunners as their technical director in the summer of 2019, and in November 2022, he advanced to the position of sporting director.

Edu, 46 years old, was a player for Arsenal from 2001 to 2005 and secured two league championships during his time at the club, including one as a member of the legendary 'Invincibles' squad in the 2003-04 season.

"This was an extremely tough choice to make," Edu remarked on Monday.

"It's now time to take on a new challenge. Arsenal will always hold a special place in my heart. I wish the club and its fans nothing but the best and all the good things in the future."

The ex-midfielder played a significant role in hiring manager Mikel Arteta for the team, and under Arteta's leadership, Arsenal secured the FA Cup at the conclusion of his first season.

Although they haven't won any significant trophies in recent years, Edu is often recognized for his role in helping to turn the club back into serious contenders for the title while collaborating with the Spanish manager.

Edu remarked, "Arsenal has provided me with the chance to collaborate with incredible individuals and to play a role in something truly significant in the club's history."

"I've truly enjoyed collaborating with many wonderful coworkers from our men's, women's, and academy teams, particularly Mikel, who has turned into a close friend."

Arsenal finished in second place in the Premier League for the last two seasons, finishing behind the champions, Manchester City.

Captain Martin Odegaard, Ben White, Gabriel, Gabriel Jesus, and Declan Rice have joined the team and have become essential contributors during Edu's time in charge. In contrast, the signings of players like David Luiz and Willian didn’t make as significant of a difference.

Every player in last Saturday's starting lineup was brought in after Edu took over, except for Bukayo Saka, who came from the academy.

Arsenal co-chair Josh Kroenke expressed, "We honor Edu's choice and are grateful for the significant impact he has made and his commitment to advancing the club."

"Change and growth are integral to our club. We stay committed to our strategy and aim to secure significant titles. Our plan for the future will embody this ongoing drive for success."

Recently, there have been changes happening behind the scenes at Arsenal. Richard Garlick stepped into the position of managing director at the start of this season, following the departure of CEO Vinai Venkatesham at the conclusion of the previous season.

The Gunners are preparing to bring James King on board as their new director of football operations.

King had previously been employed at the club but decided to move on to take a position as general counsel for the Professional Footballers' Association.

The BBC reached out to Arsenal for a statement, but the club chose not to provide any comments regarding the matter.