Arsenal Invincible teases sporting director application and reveals Edu Gaspar text messages

Gilberto Silva has refused to rule out a bid to become Arsenal's next sporting director, as he revealed his surprise with Edu Gaspar's recent resignation and text messages that followed between the pair.

The 2024/25 campaign has proven to be a peculiar one. The Gunners have been rocked by a tough time on the field of play, sitting nine points short of Premier League leaders Liverpool as things stand, but have been dealt their biggest blow perhaps in the form of Edu stepping down as sporting director.

The Brazilian had been in the role for five years, working closely alongside Mikel Arteta to secure his ideal recruits and establish the system Arsenal have used to reinstate themselves in the top-flight title picture.

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"We exchanged a couple of messages but I didn't ask him why he made the decision. Edu is a very cool guy, I think it was a tough decision for him. I wish him the best of luck - he has done a great job for the club," compatriot Silva - also a fellow member of the 2003/04 Invincibles - told Sky Sports.

"Of course I think the club will miss [him], especially at the moment. He made a great partnership with Mikel to have a good balance for Arsenal since when they start working together.

"Honestly it was a bit of a surprise for me but listen, sometimes it happens and I hope he will be happy for the next challenge, whichever he decides to do."

And so, Arsenal are left in the position of needing to find a new sporting director to take charge of all footballing matters behind the scenes. Silva was quizzed whether he would follow on from his former team-mate and take the job, given his past experience as technical director of Greek club Panathinaikos.

"I have been on a different role in football with Arsenal, I don't know," he responded. "I have done the preparation for that a few years ago, I have been invited by a few clubs in Brazil but I [decided] not to take the step into the position, but let's see the future. I am not saying right now, but as I am involved with Arsenal it is always great to be around as ambassador."