Edu has stepped down from his position as Arsenal’s sporting director.
The Brazilian originally returned to the Gunners as technical director in the summer of 2019 and was elevated to sporting director in November 2022.
Now 46, Edu previously played for Arsenal from 2001 to 2005, earning two league titles, including one as part of the legendary ‘Invincibles’ squad of the 2003-04 season.
“This was an incredibly hard decision to make,” Edu said on Monday.
“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 former midfielder was heavily involved in bringing manager Mikel Arteta to the club, with Arsenal winning the FA Cup at the end of Arteta’s first season in charge.
While major silverware has eluded them since, working alongside the Spaniard, Edu has been widely credited with helping to transform the club back into genuine title challengers.
Edu added: “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.
“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.”
Arsenal have ended the two previous campaigns as Premier League runners-up behind champions Manchester City.
Captain Martin Odegaard, Ben White, Gabriel, Gabriel Jesus and Declan Rice have all arrived and become key players during Edu’s tenure, although the recruitment of players such as David Luiz and Willian had less of an impact.
All of last Saturday’s starting XI were signed after Edu’s appointment, with the exception of academy product Bukayo Saka.
Arsenal co-chair Josh Kroenke said: “We respect Edu’s decision and thank him for his immense contribution and dedication to drive the club forward.
“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.”
Arsenal has seen several off-field changes recently, with Richard Garlick stepping into the managing director role at the start of this season following CEO Vinai Venkatesham’s departure at the end of the previous campaign.
The club is also preparing to appoint James King as director of football operations. King, who previously worked at Arsenal, had left to join the Professional Footballers’ Association as general counsel.
When contacted by the BBC, Arsenal declined to comment on the developments.