Edu resigns as Arsenal Sporting Director after five years
Arsenal Sporting Director Edu has resigned from his position in order “to pursue a different challenge.”
The Brazilian, who was a member of the Gunners’ famous 2003/04 Invincibles side, re-joined as Technical Director in July 2019 and was promoted to Sporting Director in November 2022. This latter role saw him take responsibility for the men’s, women’s and Academy teams.
One of his major acts was to overhaul the club’s scouting network, with Head of Recruitment Francis Cagigao, Head of UK Recruitment Pete Clark and top scout Brian McDermott made redundant. After this, the club moved to a more data-driven approach, with StatDNA, their in-house data and analytics company, coming more to the fore.
After his exit was announced, Edu said: “This was an incredibly hard decision to make. Arsenal has given me the opportunity to work with so many amazing people and the chance to be a part of something so special in the club’s history.
“I’ve loved working with so many great colleagues across our men’s, women’s and Academy teams, especially Mikel (Arteta), who has become a great friend. Now it is time to pursue a different challenge. Arsenal will always remain in my heart. I wish the club and its supporters only good things and all the very best.”
Co-Chair Josh Kroenke, added: “We respect Edu’s decision and thank him for his immense contribution and dedication to drive the club forward. Everyone at the club wishes him well. We are all so fond of him and the positive energy he brings to everything and everyone.
“Change and evolution is a part of our club. We remain focused on our strategy and winning major trophies. Our succession plan will reflect this continued ambition.”
After retiring from playing in 2010, Edu became Director of Football at Corinthians, his hometown club in Sao Paulo where he had started his career, and then became General Co-ordinator of the Brazil national team in 2016.
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