Edu 'wasn't happy with Mikel Arteta' as new details behind Arsenal exit emerge

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Edu (left) and Mikel Arteta worked together at Arsenal for almost five years (Image: GETTY)

Edu was reportedly unhappy that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was gaining too much authority at the Emirates Stadium ahead of his exit from the club. The Brazilian departed the north London giants at the start of November after spending more than half a decade as an executive with the Gunners.

Edu joined Arsenal as technical director in July 2019 after previously spending three-and-half years at the club as a player.

He was promoted to sporting director in November 2022 but opted to sever ties with the three-time Premier League winners, with his decision to leave appearing to come out of the blue.

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Edu had been at the club for almost half a year by the time Arteta was chosen to succeed Unai Emery in the Emirates dugout.

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And the 46-year-old seemingly had a strong relationship with the current manager, with Arsenal enjoying an upturn in fortunes since Arteta took the helm.

But, according to The Transfers Podcast, Edu wasn’t happy with Arteta’s increasing authority after the boss went into the autumn in his strongest position of power off the back of signing a new three-year contract in September.

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Edu worked as Arsenal's sporting director before departing the Gunners in November (Image: GETTY)

And that contract was one of the key reasons for Edu’s decision to tender his resignation and move on.

Edu was widely lauded for his efforts during his time in north London, and helped the Gunners sign a host of talented stars such as Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard and David Raya.

And after confirming his exit, the former midfielder suggested he had no issues with Arteta whatsoever as he explained: “This was an incredibly hard decision to make.

“Arsenal has given me the opportunity to work with so many amazing people and the chance to be a part of something so special in the club’s history. It has been a special journey and I thank Stan [Kroenke], Josh [Kroenke], Tim [Lewis] and Lord Harris for the support they’ve given me.

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“I’ve loved working with so many great colleagues across our men’s, women’s and academy teams, especially Mikel, who has become a great friend.

“Now it is time to pursue a different challenge. Arsenal will always remain in my heart. I wish the club and its supporters only good things and all the very best.”

Arsenal endured a tough spell on the pitch in the immediate aftermath of Edu’s departure as they lost 1-0 to Inter Milan before drawing 1-1 with Chelsea. But they have since won nine of their 13 matches in all competitions and are still vying for silverware across four competitions.

Edu 'wasn't happy with Mikel Arteta' as new details behind Arsenal exit emerge

Edu 'wasn't happy with Mikel Arteta' as new details behind Arsenal exit emerge

Edu 'wasn't happy with Mikel Arteta' as new details behind Arsenal exit emerge

Edu 'wasn't happy with Mikel Arteta' as new details behind Arsenal exit emerge

Edu 'wasn't happy with Mikel Arteta' as new details behind Arsenal exit emerge