And who replaces Edu could now have a crucial bearing on future club success, as well as Arteta’s future. The Spaniard enjoyed a close working relationship with the 46-year-old, who was instrumental in appointing him as manager in late 2019.
Since then, the pair have orchestrated some pivotal singings, with the likes of Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard, and William Saliba’s much-lauded additions. And according to Foot Mercato, the north London club are again targeting former players to oversee their transfer business.
Both Tomas Rosicky and Per Mertesacker are said to be in the frame. The Czech midfielder played 247 times in a decade-long stint at the club under Arsene Wenger, and featured in their 2013/14 FA Cup final win over Hull City.
Following retirement, he took on the role of sporting director at Sparta Prague. He’s now been in the job for six years, but talks with his former club have reportedly already been initiated.
Ex-German defender Mertesacker meanwhile, would signify an internal appointment. Like Rosicky, he’s revered at the club for his exploits as a player, making 221 appearances and winning the FA Cup three times.
But after hanging up his boots in 2018, he’s stayed within the club ranks. The 40-year-old is currently in charge of the club’s Hale End academy system, and has been credited for bringing Ethan Nwaneri through the ranks.
Any potential appointment won’t be swift however, with Edu set to serve a notice period with reduced responsibilities before leaving. He is thought to be beginning his final six months at the club before joining Marinakis.
It means that even if Rosicky or Mertesacker were handed the job, they likely wouldn’t be able to influence the current campaign. Instead, they’d start the post just ahead of the 2025 summer transfer window.