The shock was at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium when the unexpected news broke that Edu Gaspar had left the club as its sporting director. Mikel Arteta has reacted to the exit of Edu. British newspaper The Independent said on Tuesday that Edu, a widely popular figure who had also been making a major impact at the club
He is departing to join Nottingham Forest’s multi-club network. Yet what does this mean for Arsenal’s future? We will take a look at where we are, and what could be next.
After he returned as technical director in 2019, Edu’s tenure at Arsenal began. He has since played a major part in turning the club around. After some transfer market errors, but still, under his guidance, Arsenal has made immense progress. It’s clear how the team has made progress and now that Edu has left a void must be filled.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was disappointed to lose Edu, adding: ‘I thought we could have won it.’ Passion and know-how are driving the club’s leadership team is will continue the journey. But there’s no one ready to take over from Edu’s job, either; the post didn’t exist until he was appointed in 2022.
Ahead of us are many challenges. The Gunners have recently – fallen slightly and failed to win in their last three Premier League games. But their Champions League campaign is not blemished. The loss of Edu will be felt, but Arteta is confident they can adjust as they take on Inter Milan.
Arteta on Edu exit
Martin Ødegaard’s availability is a beaming light and good news for player availability. The Arsenal captain left out of 12 games for an ankle injury has travelled with the team to face Inter Milan. If a creative spark can be found, the recent winless streak might be broken.
Declan Rice, meanwhile, is also missing out on the Italy trip with a foot injury and is uncertain for the Chelsea match. Captain Bukayo Saka, who could keep his spot, is unfazed as Arsenal struggles. Arsenal still have their journey to make and fans are still waiting for good returns.
Former Arsenal player and Invincible Edu Gaspar had a crucial role at the club. But in that time, he served as a father in the team’s transformation of late from technical director to sporting director. He was a man with good interpersonal skills, charisma and the skill to navigate a full-on rebuild.
Arteta said “I would if I felt I needed to but I think it’s important not to overreact as well.” He said. “There’s a lot of noise around the club. And we lost two games and drew another one. But at the same time I think it’s important to stay calm – doing all of these things can at the same time create more calm but they can also create a bit more panic and chaos. I don’t think we need that right now. So I’m just doing my best to help the team in every way I can and if I need to do that I’ll do that for sure.”
Arsenal After him
Arsenal begin their succession plan. But it’s the Kroenkes who will ultimately choose the replacement for Edu and the trio of Arteta, Garlick, and Lewis will have a hand in assisting with the selection. Despite that, the club’s vision and ambition remain, and stability is a priority. It hurts that Ed is gone but Arsenal will move forward in the transfer windows and aim for success.
Inevitable change is inevitable at Arsenal. The Gunners will make their way through this transition thanks to Arteta’s leadership and the existing management team in place. While we say goodbye to a dearly loved figure, fans can expect continued progress. The road continues, and the club’s heart stays beaten.
Executive Vice-Chair Tim Lewis: Lewis is a confidant to the Kroenke family and its strategic decision-makers. In 2020, he was promoted to this role.
Managing Director Richard Garlick: Arsenal football operations are handled by Garlick, who joined the Gunners in 2021. His promotion is the latest sign of how important he is to the club.
Mikel Arteta: But close to Edu, the manager must now adapt without his lad.
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