Why I left Arsenal and Arteta — Sporting director Edu opens up after joining rivals

Edu Gaspar announced his decision to step down from his role as Sporting director of Arsenal on Monday.

He is reportedly moving on to join Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis.

"I've decided it's time to take on a new challenge," Edu said in a statement.

"Arsenal will always have a special place in my heart. This wasn't an easy decision to make."

Edu joined Arsenal in 2019 and formed a strong partnership with manager Mikel Arteta. Together, they transformed the team into title contenders.

Arsenal thanked Edu for his contributions:

"We're grateful for the role Edu played in shaping our football strategy.

"We thank him for the part he has played in driving the club forward with the values of Arsenal in his heart."

Edu's departure marks the end of an era, but Arsenal will continue to build under Mikel Arteta as the club look to recover from a slump that has seen them fall behind in the Premier League.

Arsenal's Champions League journey continues on Wednesday with a highly anticipated clash against Inter Milan.