Mikel Arteta breaks silence on shock Edu Gaspar exit as Arsenal boss delivers emotional verdict

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has now opened up about Edu Gaspar following the sporting director’s departure from the club.

Edu Gaspar resigned from his post at Arsenal on Wednesday, in a surprise move. 

As such, the North London club will now begin their search for the Brazilian’s replacement. However, it is vital that this process is conducted responsibly and not in any kind of panicked rush.

After all, Edu produced impressive results in the transfer market for Arsenal and had a huge and important influence at the club. 

The former midfielder worked closely with Mikel Arteta, succeeding in making the Gunners a genuinely competitive force again.

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

What Mikel Arteta had to say about Edu Gaspar

Speaking in his press conference ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League clash against Inter Milan, the Spanish coach was remarkably honest when it came to discussing Edu’s departure. 

Arteta said: “Everything happened very quickly. I loved working with him, i really enjoyed being alongside him in this incredible journey. I’m very grateful for everything he’s done for me and the football club.

“I think we both had this special chemistry working together. I’m very blessed that he’s been part of my life managing this club.

“He’s had an amazing opportunity now to do something else in a different role. He feels that’s best for him. We have to respect that. From that bottom of my heart I wish the best for him.”

Edu was a close ally of Arteta’s, even protecting the latter when he came under fierce pressure earlier in his tenure. It is no surprise, then, that the pair share a close bond. 

The Arsenal players will also miss Edu, who enjoyed a great relationship with the squad that he played such a big role in bringing together. 

What Arsenal will do now Edu has left

Whilst there is still emotion surrounding Edu’s exit, there is a measure of practicality too. Arsenal must be thorough in their search for a successor.

There also needs to be consistency. Whoever the new sporting director turns out to be, it is vital that they respect and maintain the foundations that Edu has built.

Arteta has suggested that this is something that the club is conscious of too, as he stated: “The plan and vision that starts with ownership is going to continue. We have a very strong leadership team and we’re not going to stop right now. The passion to fulfil this journey is not going to stop. That means opportunities for someone else. We say thankyou and we have to move on.”

There are reasons for Arsenal fans to be optimistic about what comes after Edu, as long as the club make smart decisions now.