Arsenal fought to prevent sporting director Edu from leaving the club but the Brazilian is determined to take his first steps into the world of multi-club football.
Mail Sport understands that the Gunners’ made a counter offer believed to be comparable with the deal made by Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis to head up his football portfolio, that includes Olympiacos and Rio Ave, to stay at the Emirates.
But Edu is attracted to taking a global position overseeing numerous clubs as he enters the next phase of his career.
The challenge of having a comprehensive role controlling numerous clubs is a prospect Edu has been tempted by in recent months and the opportunity to take his first steps into such a position was too alluring to turn down, prompting him into taking the bombshell decision to leave Arsenal.
And while he is in line for a significant salary increase at his next job, Edu’s main attraction is to the global positions he is being lined up for.
Edu turned down a lucrative new deal from Arsenal to take a role with Nottingham Forest
The Gunners’ offer was comparable with the deal made by Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis
Indications that Forest have offered to treble Edu’s Arsenal salary, which is believed to be £2-3million per year, are believed to be exaggerated.
Crucially it is understood Marinakis is not the only multi-club supremo to be interested in securing Edu’s services, though discussions are understood to have been positive with the Greek businessman, who greatly admires the 46-year-old’s body of work.
Mail Sport exclusively revealed on Monday morning that Edu would be leaving his post at the Emirates, news the club confirmed later the same day.
In the statement confirming his resignation late on Monday afternoon, the club thanked their former midfielder for his role in their ‘renewed football strategy’ and ‘driving the club forward’.
Edu said: ‘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, Josh, Tim and Lord Harris for the support they’ve given me.
‘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.’
The Brazilian (right) has overseen the overhaul in Arsenal’s squad that has seen them become Premier League title challengers
Co-chair Josh Kroenke added: ‘We respect Edu’s decision and thank him for his immense contribution and dedication to drive the club forward.
‘Everyone at the club wishes him well. We are all so fond of him and the positive energy he brings to everything and everyone.
‘Change and evolution is a part of our club. We remain focused on our strategy and winning major trophies. Our succession plan will reflect this continued ambition.’
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