November 4th 2024.
In a shocking turn of events, it has been reported that Edu Gaspar, the sporting director of Arsenal, will be leaving the club. This news comes as a huge blow for the Gunners, as Edu has played a crucial role in the club's resurgence over the past few seasons. The Brazilian had rejoined Arsenal, where he used to play from 2001-2005, in 2019 as the technical director and was later promoted to sporting director in November 2022.
Edu has been credited with securing big signings such as Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard, and his connections in Brazil helped the club acquire the previously unknown talent of Gabriel Martinelli. However, talks between Edu and the Arsenal hierarchy have taken place, and it has been decided that the Brazilian will be moving on from the club. The reasons for his departure and the timeline of his exit are yet to be revealed, but sources suggest that there will be a reshuffle in responsibilities among the Arsenal hierarchy.
Just a few months ago, in September, Edu was seen alongside Mikel Arteta as the Spaniard signed a new contract with the club. Speaking about the future under Arteta, Edu said, "We are really happy that Mikel has signed a new long-term contract. It's a very positive and proud moment for everyone at the club and an important part of what we're all working towards. Mikel has shown his qualities, not just as a football manager, but also as a person with wonderful values."
In an interview with Men In Blazers over the summer, Edu discussed his strategy and the tough decisions he has had to make to achieve success. "When you live in the football world, sometimes you have to make decisions that may not be popular. You have to be strong in your beliefs and do what is best for the club and its future," he said.
Edu also talked about the three elements he considers while making decisions for the club - the age of the player, their salary, and their performance. He emphasized the need to have a balanced squad, with younger players on lower salaries, who are hungry to take the club to new heights.
It is evident that Edu has been a key figure at Arsenal for the last five years, and his departure will leave a significant void. However, he believes that sometimes, unpopular decisions need to be made for the betterment of the club. "Most of the players who had the three elements I mentioned earlier had a fanbase and media who loved them. But for the club, it was not healthy to keep them in that situation. We needed to build a new foundation, and from there, sign younger players with better futures," he explained.
Edu's time at Arsenal may have come to an end, but his contributions to the club will not be forgotten. He won two Premier League titles as a player with the Gunners and has continued to make a significant impact in his role as a sporting director. As the club moves forward, they will have to find a suitable replacement for Edu and continue to build on the foundation he helped lay.
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