Ex-Arsenal Transfer Boss Makes Shocking Move to Premier League Rivals

Nottingham Forest has officially announced the appointment of former Arsenal sporting director Edu Gaspar to the position of 'Global Head of Football'.

In a move that caught many off guard, Edu declared his sudden departure from Arsenal in November 2024, bringing to a close his five-year tenure in the leadership structure of a club where he had previously excelled as a player.

Edu characterized his decision to leave Arsenal as "an extremely difficult choice" and received heartfelt appreciation from co-chair Josh Kroenke and head coach Mikel Arteta. Speculation quickly emerged that the Brazilian executive would transition to a broader role within the network of clubs controlled by Evangelos Marinakis.

"I'm genuinely thrilled about this fresh opportunity and feel privileged by the confidence shown in me," Edu stated on Nottingham Forest's official platform. "This venture resonates strongly with my principles regarding innovation and strategic long-term development. I'm eager to establish a worldwide football framework that is both competitive and sustainable, matching our president's vision."

The organization announced that Edu "will manage all football operations, encompassing talent acquisition, performance analysis, team planning, and player advancement," with these duties anticipated to cover Forest's affiliated clubs Olympiacos and Rio Ave.

Marinakis commented: "We are delighted to bring Edu into our football organization. His international expertise, principles and championship mentality perfectly match our goal to enhance and broaden our global football network."

Arsenal conducted an extensive search for Edu's successor, struggling through the January transfer period with his former deputy, Jason Ayto, leading operations. Following considerable consideration, the Gunners ultimately selected Andrea Berta. The ex-Atlético Madrid executive has already facilitated the acquisitions of Kepa Arrizabalaga and Martín Zubimendi—though the groundwork for the latter transfer was allegedly established by Edu and his staff.

Berta is currently working to secure a transfer for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres, a target he reportedly persuaded the club to pursue instead of Arteta's favored choice of Benjamin Šeško.