Arsenal to appoint Edu as new technical director

Arsenal’s search for a technical director appears to be coming to a close. After failing in their bid to lure their first choice in Monchi from Roma, reports indicate that they have agreed to terms and will install former midfielder Edu to the position.

Currently, Edu co-ordinator of the Brazilian National team, a post he’s held since 2016, and, while talks with Arsenal had been ongoing since January, Edu had opted to remain with the national squad. Whether he had a change of mind or Arsenal gave a better pitch, it is now believed he will be joining Arsenal in July to work alongside Raul Sanllehi. As technical director, Edu will oversee various club activities including training practices, contract talks and player recruitment.

Edu, for those too young to remember, joined Arsenal back in 2001 and was a key depth midfielder making 127 appearances, playing his biggest role during The Invincibles run of 2003-04. During that time, he was a part of two league titles and three FA Cups, hearkening back to one of the brightest times in Gunner’s recent history. Let’s hope he can help build another winning side.

Also with this news, it is widely believed that Arsenal will also be permanently promoting Francis Cagigao to head of player recruitment. Cagigao is currently acting as head, replacing the departed Sven Mislintat, who left after being overlooked for the position of technical director (among other things). The 49-year-old has a long history at the club serving as both an Arsenal Youth player in the 80s and a scout for many years under Wenger.

Appears the management structure at Arsenal has finally taken shape. Apparently, it only takes 11 months to recover from losing Wenger. Now, let the team rebuild truly begin.