2 former players among candidates to replace Edu as Arsenal's sporting director

Arsenal could opt for familiarity in their search to replace Edu Gaspar as sporting director, with former players Per Mertesacker and Tomas Rosicky linked with the position.

While members of the club's hierarchy weren't totally stunned, the overwhelming majority of supporters were hugely surprised when news broke of Edu's intended resignation. Arsenal officially confirmed the Brazilian's exit on 4 November having played a key role in the club's rise under Mikel Arteta.

Edu was bullish over the appointment of the Spaniard in the wake of Unai Emery's disastrous reign having re-joined the club in July 2019 as technical director. He then became the Gunners' first-ever sporting director in November 2022, but he's since been tempted by the all-encompassing role offered to him by infamous multi-club owner Evangelos Marinakis.

The timing of Edu's departure obviously isn't ideal, and the former director's six-month notice period means the process in regards to hiring a successor will not be a quick one. Directors do not move between clubs like players and managers. It's much more complicated, but Arsenal may have an internal solution.

Per Mertesacker & Tomas Rosicky among candidates to replace Edu at Arsenal

Footmercato report that current academy manager Per Mertesacker, who's been in the role since 2018, is being considered for the vacant sporting director position alongside former cult hero Tomas Rosicky.

The pair are said to be highly appreciated in Gunners quarters, and the report suggests that Arsenal have already opened discussions with Rosicky. The former Czech international was loved in north London despite all the injuries and is currently operating as Sparta Prague's sporting director. He's been in the role since 2018, so he does boast experience, and the club with whom he earned his senior breakthrough have earned back-to-back Czech First League titles.

The two reported candidates are well aware of what it means to represent Arsenal, and Mertesacker's experience within the current framework could tempt the Kroenkes, who will undoubtedly conduct a wildly diligent search in their bid to aptly replace Edu.

The Athletic write that hopeful candidates do not require an affiliation with Arsenal which, of course, Edu had. Mikel Arteta will also play a considerable role in the hiring process given the close ties he'll have with the new incumbent. The aforementioned candidates are former teammates of the Spanish manager, who has close ties with academy manager Mertesacker and may well be open to working with the towering German in an even closer capacity.

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