Arsenal’s sporting director Edu Gaspar is set to leave the club, according to the Daily Mail on Monday.
The news comes as a something of a shock, particularly given Edu’s significant role in revitalising the Gunners’ fortunes since joining in 2019. His partnership with Mikel Arteta has been instrumental in reshaping the club, turning around what had been a prolonged slump in both form and fortune.
According to Sami Mokbel of the Daily Mail, sources close to the situation indicate that behind-the-scenes changes have played a major role in Edu’s decision. Since Tim Lewis, owner Stan Kroenke’s family lawyer, joined the Arsenal board in 2020, his influence has grown.
Mokbel also reports that the subsequent promotion of Richard Garlick to chief executive officer earlier this year further diluted Edu’s authority, particularly following the departure of Vinai Venkatesham from the CEO role. Edu was seen by many as the natural successor to Venkatesham, but the position ultimately went to Garlick, a move that, according to the Daily Mail, appears to have played a part in Edu’s decision to leave.
According to the Daily Mail, it appears that Edu has felt increasingly marginalised at the club, leading to what sources describe as ‘itchy feet’.
Mokbel reports that Edu has been intrigued by the growing trend towards multi-club ownership models, and Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is said to be a significant admirer of Edu.
Marinakis, who also owns Olympiacos and Rio Ave, has apparently held “discreet talks” with Edu, offering him the opportunity to lead a multi-club operation. There are rumours Marinakis is attempting to add another club to his portfolio.
Such a role may offer Edu the scope of influence he no longer feels at Arsenal.
According to Mokbel, Edu is hugely popular among both staff and players, and his warmth and personable nature have made him one of the most respected sporting directors in European football.
In addition, the Athletic report that, while contracts aren’t yet finalised, there’s an agreement in place that will see Edu’s new role focus on expanding Marinakis’ football operations.