'Immense gratitude': Edu bids farewell to Arsenal

The departure, which was confirmed several months ago, marks the end of Edu's five-and-a-half-year journey with the Gunners. Having been instrumental in reviving the club's fortunes, he leaves behind a team that is once again fighting for major honours.

Edu, a former player who was part of the legendary Invincibles squad, will now take up a senior position overseeing Evangelos Marinakis' multi-club model, a move that comes after his successful stint at Arsenal.

Notable signings such as Gabriel, Martin Odegaard, and the record-breaking acquisition of Declan Rice were all part of his key contributions during his time as sporting director. His role was central in ensuring that Arsenal not only returned to the top of English football but also established themselves as serious contenders in Europe.

In his farewell message posted on social media, Edu said: "Thank you, Arsenal. Thank you, Gunners! With immense gratitude in my heart, I officially close one of the most meaningful chapters of my professional life. After five and a half years, my journey as Sporting Director of Arsenal FC has come to an end."

He continued: "Our mission was to bring Arsenal back where it belongs—among football's elite, driving a cultural shift, competing for trophies, and making Champions League qualification the minimum expectation for a club of Arsenal's stature."