Gary O’Driscoll, Arsenal’s highly-regarded head of medical services, is preparing for a significant career move as he readies to join Manchester United even though he was not actively trying to leave the club.

The move is expected to complete this summer, marking the end of his long and successful tenure with the North London club.

• Gary O’Driscoll, Arsenal’s head of medical services, is moving to Manchester United.
• He has been a key figure at Arsenal since joining in 2009.
• Despite previous opportunities to leave, O’Driscoll chose to stay with Arsenal until now.

Gary O’Driscoll, a steadfast figure at Arsenal since 2009, was previously close to signing with Liverpool in 2020 but opted to remain with the Gunners.

His impending move to Manchester United is not a decision taken lightly. The Englishman, who is said to be extremely popular at Arsenal, was not actively seeking to leave. This opportunity, however, also allows him to move closer to family in the area.

Manchester United have had a vacancy ever since Steve McNally left in December 2022, and O’Driscoll was their preferred choice according to David Ornstein.

At Arsenal, O’Driscoll built strong relationships, particularly with Mikel Arteta, whom convinced him to stay on multiple occasions.

He leaves a significant void, but his departure is understood to be amicable, with the club wishing him the best in his new venture.

The news comes on the heels of another significant exit.

Steve Round, assistant manager to Mikel Arteta, also recently left Arsenal by mutual agreement.

Despite the unexpected departure, Albert Stuivenberg will continue in his role as Arteta’s assistant, ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining stability within the team.