Arsenal’s Sporting Director, Edu, has resigned following a lucrative second offer from Evangelos Marinakis, the owner of Nottingham Forest, Olympiacos and Rio Ave.

According to The Daily Telegraph, Edu is set to double his current salary of approximately £3million per year, taking a role overseeing operations at Marinakis’s expanding portfolio of clubs.

The departure was confirmed by Arsenal last night, with Edu stating his desire for a “new challenge.” Marinakis, who is believed to be eyeing a fourth club is expected to formalise Edu’s appointment in the coming days, having already made Edu an offer he turned down during the summer, according to The Daily Mail.

Marinakis’s intentions are clear—to utilise Edu’s experience across his football empire. Edu’s role will be multi-faceted, likely involving time at each of Marinakis’s clubs, with a focus on building a cohesive structure across the group.

The challenge, along with a significant salary increase, appears to have been too compelling for Edu to resist. As Sami Mokbel in the Mail writes, “Edu had grown fascinated with the challenges a multi-club model had to offer, and more pertinently, what undertaking such a role would be like.”

Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, will play a major role in appointing Edu’s replacement. Arteta is losing a trusted ally and will want to ensure the new appointment aligns with the club’s ongoing project.

Co-chair Josh Kroenke stated that the succession plan would focus on continuing Arsenal’s pursuit of major trophies, with Arteta to have considerable input in the decision-making process.

Edu’s impact at Arsenal cannot be overstated. He was instrumental in securing key signings such as Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice, and played a pivotal role in restructuring a squad once laden with underperforming players.

His resignation, described by the 46-year-old as a “difficult decision,” marks the end of a significant chapter in Arsenal’s recent history.

Kroenke acknowledged Edu’s contributions, expressing both gratitude and respect for his decision. Edu himself shared a heartfelt statement, thanking the club for the opportunity to be part of something “special.” He highlighted his strong working relationship with Arteta, whom he described as a “great friend.”

With Arsenal facing Inter Milan in a crucial Champions League clash, Arteta is expected to address Edu’s departure during the pre-match press conference.

It remains to be seen how the club will move forward, but managing director Richard Garlick and executive Tim Lewis are set to work closely with Arteta in defining Arsenal’s next steps.