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 the Gunners have made a counter-offer believed to be comparable to the deal made by Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis to head up his football portfolio, which includes Olympiacos and Rio Ave, to stay at the Emirates .
But Edu is drawn to taking on a global position overseeing numerous clubs as he enters the next phase of his career.
The challenge of playing an integral role in the control of numerous clubs is a prospect that Edu has been tempted by in recent months and the opportunity to take his first steps in that position was too attractive to turn down, leading him to make the explosive decision to leave Arsenal. .
And while he’s in line for a significant pay rise in his next job, Edu’s main draw is the global roles he’s applying for.
Edu turned down lucrative new Arsenal contract to take up role at Nottingham Forest
The Gunners’ offer was comparable to that of Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis.
Indications that Forest have offered to triple Edu’s Arsenal salary, believed to be £2-3m a year, are believed to be exaggerated.
Most importantly, Marinakis is not the only multi-club boss interested in securing Edu’s services, although talks are believed to have been positive with the Greek businessman, who greatly admires the 46-year-old’s work.
Mail Sport exclusively revealed on Monday morning that Edu would be leaving his role at the Emirates, news which the club confirmed later in the day.
In the statement confirming his resignation on Monday afternoon, Arsenal thanked their former midfielder for his role in their “renewed football strategy” and for “driving the club forward”.
Edu said: ‘It has been an incredibly difficult decision to make. Arsenal has given me the opportunity to work with so many incredible people and the chance to be 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 have given me.
“I have loved working with so many great colleagues from our men’s, women’s and academy teams, especially Mikel, who has become a great friend.
‘Now is the time to face a different challenge. Arsenal will always be in my heart. I wish the club and its fans only good things and all the best.”
The Brazilian (right) has overseen the renewal of the Arsenal squad that has made them a contender for the Premier League title.
Co-president Josh Kroenke added: “We respect Edu’s decision and thank him for his immense contribution and dedication to moving the club forward.”
“Everyone at the club wishes him the best. We are all very fond of him and the positive energy he brings to everything and everyone.
‘Change and evolution are part of our club. We remain focused on our strategy and winning big trophies. Our succession plan will reflect this continued ambition.’
