Tomas Rosicky has been named as AC Sparta Prague’s new sporting director, and he’s already made his first big decision in the new role, keeping Zdeněk Ščasný on as head coach.

Sparta Prague announced the promotion earlier this week. Since his retirement, Rosicky had been working as an advisor to the club board and the team’s manager, but CEO Frantisek Cupr says he’s now ready for the job as Sports Director.

“Tomáš is in a new position with a strong mandate,” Cupr said. “He becomes a Sports Director with the support of the Board of Directors. His role is key to Sparta’s further direction. He has a clear vision and a perfect knowledge of the football in the Czech Republic and Europe.”

Rosicky will be responsible for the sports strategy at the club, helping to manage Sparta’s transfers and operating in a level between the head coach and the CEO or the Board of Directors.

The former Gunner has already made his first decision, choosing to keep Zdeněk Ščasný as the club’s head coach. Sparta are currently fifth in the table, making a steady decline down the table in recent seasons, finishing 2nd, 3rd and 5th in the last three campaigns. However, Rosicky and the board clearly think Ščasný is the man to turn things around.

Rosicky made 247 appearances for Arsenal over a period of 10 years, but he’s probably most fondly remembered for all his goals against Tottenham Hotspur. The former midfielder scored in a win at White Hart Lane, the iconic 5-2 victory at the Emirates Stadium and an FA Cup victory at the same ground.

Hopefully, he has a lot of success in his new role back in his home country.