Martin Keown questions former teammate Edu Gaspar on Arsenal exit as ‘better offer’ claim refuted

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Former Gunner Martin Keown has reacted to the news of Edu Gaspar’s pending departure from Arsenal.

The news of Edu’s expected exit broke on Monday morning, shocking the footballing world and particularly those at the Emirates. 

To say the move was unexpected would be an understatement, given how well the Brazilian and Mikel Arteta have worked together over the years. 

Returning to North London in 2019 to reconnect with his former club, Edu was promoted to sporting director, a role that is poised to be made vacant very soon.

• READ MORE: Who is Edu Gaspar? Everything you need to know about the ex-Arsenal player turned director

Martin Keown reacts to Edu’s Arsenal departure

The club are yet to comment on reports regarding Edu’s future, with Arteta set to be interrogated for a response by the media in his pre-match press conference on Tuesday. 

While Arteta has not yet shared his thoughts, another former Arsenal player has, as Martin Keown discussed the news at Colney when on talkSPORT. 

“He is a very calm individual and it’s probably taken a lot out of him, there is a shelf life to this type of role,” Keown explained, exploring his opinions on why the Brazilian is ready to leave.

With speculation over joining forces with Evangelos Marinakis surfacing, Keown was then asked by Jim White if Edu is perhaps just leaving because he has a tempting offer. 

“Maybe he’s got a better offer?” White asked, to which Keown provided a blunt response.

• READ MORE: Edu Gaspar may have already found his next job after shock decision to turn his back on Arsenal

“For me, what could be better than being in that role for Arsenal?

“He may want to return home to Brazil. I think you have to say, he’s done an exceptional job.”

Keown expressed his opinion in a true Arsenal manner, questioning whether there is a better move in store for Edu away from the Emirates.

Edu is ready to leave Arsenal

Reports that followed the Daily Mail’s breaker have shared an insight into the possible driving forces behind the Brazilian’s decision. 

One narrative is that Edu felt unsettled at Arsenal during the summer, with the lure of joining a multi-club model such as Marinakis’ giving the sporting director ‘itchy feet’.

It’s a shame but, so far, it’s understood that the call is entirely Edu’s, who seems to be ready to fly the nest.

While career progression is expected, the puzzling part of the news is that Edu will leave without completing the project he sculpted with Arteta, asking questions about whether there’s more to the story.