Arsenal have appointed Sam Hayball as the new loans manager.
This decision follows the departure of Ben Knapper, who has taken up a new role as the sporting director at Norwich City.
Sam Hayball has been appointed as the new Arsenal loans manager, following Ben Knapper‘s departure to Norwich City.
Knapper, who pioneered the role at Arsenal, has been appointed as Norwich City‘s sporting director, a position he took up in November.
Hayball, who previously worked closely with Knapper at Arsenal, brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as a match analyst and been part of the club since 2014.
His tenure at Arsenal also includes significant involvement with the academy.
The shift in management comes after Norwich City confirmed Knapper‘s appointment as their new sporting director two months ago.
Edu Gaspar, speaking on Knapper‘s departure, expressed a mix of pride and sadness. “We are so proud that Ben has been appointed sporting director at Norwich City,” he said.
Edu further highlighted Knapper‘s role in Arsenal‘s strategy and his impact on the players’ development. “Ben has played a key role in the positive development of so many of our men’s players over the years, where he has driven a part of our football strategy to give our players the best possible experience, to ensure they return to us with enhanced qualities to continue their careers with us or elsewhere,” Edu added.
In response to his appointment at Norwich City, Knapper expressed his excitement and admiration for the club. “I’m absolutely delighted to be joining Norwich City,” Knapper said.
He also noted his positive interactions with the club over the years and his eagerness to contribute to its success. “There are clearly some very good foundations already in place. I’m really looking forward to getting started, meeting everyone, and contributing to the next chapter of success in the club’s journey.”
Knapper‘s tenure at Arsenal spans 13 years, with the last four years dedicated to the role of loan manager. His departure marks the end of an era at Arsenal, but also the beginning of a new chapter with Sam Hayball taking over.
Sam Hayball’s time at Arsenal
Sam Hayball has had a lengthy tenure at Arsenal F.C, spanning over nine years. His journey with the club began in February 2014, when he took on the role of Junior Academy Analyst, a position he held for four months.
This initial period provided Hayball with valuable insights into the workings of the club’s academy system.
In July 2014, Hayball progressed to the position of Assistant Academy Analyst, where he served for nearly two years until May 2016. During this time, he played a crucial role in analysing and supporting the development of young talents within Arsenal’s academy.
Hayball’s expertise and dedication led to his appointment as a First Team Analyst in June 2016, a role he excelled in for over five years, until December 2021.
In this capacity, he was responsible for analysing the performances of the first-team players.
Since January 2022, Hayball has been serving as the Loan Coordinator for Arsenal F.C. This role involves overseeing the development of players who are out on loan, ensuring they gain the necessary experience and growth during their time away from the club.