Edu Gaspar seeks a 'different challenge': The real reason behind his departure from Arsenal

Nottingham Forest have confirmed the appointment of Edu Gaspar as their new Global Head of Football, marking a significant addition to the club’s leadership structure as they prepare for their return to European competition.

Edu, who left Arsenal in November 2024 after five years in football operations at the Emirates, will now take charge of all football-related matters at Forest, including recruitment, performance, squad strategy and player development.

His role is part of a broader strategy by club president Evangelos Marinakis to expand Forest’s footballing network, with Edu also expected to influence operations at sister clubs Olympiacos and Rio Ave.

The appointment of the former Arsenal sporting director is viewed internally as a statement of ambition as Forest seek to consolidate their status in the Premier League and establish a sustainable multi-club model.

Edu, 46, said he was honoured by the opportunity and excited by the scale of the project, adding: “This role connects deeply with my values around innovation and long-term planning. I look forward to building a global football model that is competitive and aligned with our president’s ambition.”

Marinakis echoed that sentiment, calling Edu’s arrival “a perfect fit” due to his global experience and winning mentality.

The Brazilian is highly regarded for his behind-the-scenes impact at Arsenal, where he played a pivotal role in reshaping the club’s football structure, including the appointment of Mikel Arteta in 2019.

He was instrumental in the Gunners’ rebuild from mid-table obscurity to title contenders, helping modernise their recruitment and sporting strategy.

Edu’s playing career was also decorated. A member of Arsenal’s iconic 2003-04 Invincibles squad, he won two Premier League titles, two FA Cups and the Copa América with Brazil in 2004.

His post-playing career began at Corinthians, where he worked as director of football, before joining the Brazilian national team as general coordinator and then returning to Arsenal in an executive role.

Forest’s capture of Edu is being described as a coup, reinforcing the club’s ambition to build on last season’s seventh-placed finish and upcoming participation in the UEFA Europa Conference League.

The move also signals Marinakis’ intent to turn Forest into a modern European football force, with Edu seen as the figure to unify strategy across his growing network of clubs.

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