Arsenal have confirmed that Edu Gaspar has resigned as the club's sporting director.

The Brazilian joined Arsenal in the summer of 2019 and has overseen a massive overhaul of the squad. He has now confirmed his abrupt departure though.

“This was an incredibly hard decision to make," Edu said in a statement. "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.”

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Arsenal co-owner Josh Kroenke has confirmed that he accepted Edu's decision and announced in a statement that the Brazilian's successor would be appointed with winning trophies in mind.

“We respect Edu’s decision and thank him for his immense contribution and dedication to drive the club forward," Kroenke said. “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.”

Edu will not cease working at Arsenal immediately. The Brazilian will serve a notice period before officially departing although it is not yet clear how long that will be.

The Brazilian is now set to become CEO of Evangelos Marinakis' multi-club system which includes Nottingham Forest, Olympiacos and Rio Ave. The opportunity to fill this role at Arsenal was not available after the Gunners appointed Richard Garlick to replace the departing Vinai Venkatesham.

Arsenal are in a strong position when it comes to recruiting a successor due to the strength of the project in north London. The Gunners are unlikely to rush when appointing a replacement, though, and will announce Edu's successor in due course.