Exclusive: The real reason why Edu has decided to walk away from Arsenal

• EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey

If the poor defeat to Newcastle United wasn’t enough to worry Arsenal fans, sporting director Edu Gaspar has decided to leave his role with the club.

Edu rejoined Arsenal in 2019, initially as the club’s technical director before he was then promoted to the role of sporting director three years later.

The Brazilian, who made 127 appearances for Arsenal as a player, had a brilliant working relationship with Mikel Arteta, explaining why so many supporters in N5 may be worried by the news.

Edu has been key to so many excellent signings at Arsenal, including a bargain deal for Gabriel Martinelli who was plucked from the Brazilian second tier.

Amid a difficult run of form, the timing of the news isn’t ideal for the Gunners, who will need to find a swift replacement.

Edu’s position had become increasingly uncomfortable at Arsenal

That being said, TBR Football understands that there have been issues between the club’s hierarchy and Edu, which saw his position become increasingly uncomfortable.

Sources have confirmed that Edu has decided to leave his role with the club, a decision that wasn’t taken lightly.

READ MORE: Mikel Arteta says Arsenal are planning contract talks with ‘big player’

Because of the issues mentioned, Edu has decided to walk away, a blow for Arsenal who have come very far under his guidance.

Arteta is aware of the situation and is disappointed to see a close confidant depart north London.

However, we are told that he is confident about the club’s ability to replace Edu with the right candidate.

Arsenal will always be a ‘special place’ for Edu who has decided to leave

Of course, it’s now interesting to look back at Edu’s comments when he decided to re-join Arsenal in 2019.

Edu said he was determined to ‘make a difference’, something he’s certainly achieved in his five year tenure.

He said: “Arsenal has always had a special place in my heart and I’m thrilled to be returning to this great club in this new role.

“We have a strong squad and some very talented young players with fantastic people at every level. I’m looking forward to helping make a difference.”

A difficult moment for the Gunners who would have much rather tackled a problem of this size in the off-season.

However, Arsenal will now need to find a suitable candidate who can galvanise all of their recent hard work and help deliver trophies that their excellent football has deserved.