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Why Evangelos Marinakis wants Edu and what he could bring to Nottingham Forest after Arsenal exit
For clues about why Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is keen to snap up Edu for his conglomerate of clubs, Arsenal’s statement announcing the Brazilian’s exit says it all.
After a day of speculation, the Gunner’s confirmed Edu had resigned from his sporting director role on Monday evening. He is said to have agreed a deal in principle with the Marinakis group to oversee operations at the Greek’s trio of teams - Forest, Olympiacos and Rio Ave.
Why does Marinakis want him? Arsenal can answer that.
Bidding him farewell, co-chair Josh Kroenke highlighted Edu’s “immense contribution” and spoke of his “dedication to drive the club forward”. Hinting at the considerable hole being left, he raved about the ex-midfielder’s “positive energy” and how everyone at the club is “so fond of him”.
Kroenke added: “We remain focused on our strategy and winning major trophies. Our succession plan will reflect this continued ambition.”
Winning trophies are part of Marinakis’ strategy, too. He said as much after Forest secured promotion. Edu has the potential to play his part in that.
The 46-year-old has left the capital with a glowing reference from his former employers. And the Gunners added: “We thank Edu for the part he has played in our renewed football strategy and driving the club forward with the values of Arsenal in his heart.”
Edu spent four years with the Gunners as a player, then returned in 2019 for an off-field role. His initial title was that of technical director, before it changed to sporting director three years later.
During that time, he helped turn the club into genuine title contenders once again. Moreover, an FA Cup win in 2020 ensured his tenure included some silverware.
Edu was part of Arsene Wenger’s Invincibles team. He is a winner. Add it all up and it is no wonder Marinakis seemingly rates him.
Rumours about Edu potentially taking up post at the City Ground first surfaced in the summer, although the club dismissed them at the time. In the intervening months, Forest have made a storming start to the season - and although such a swoop has reportedly been on the cards for a while, you can add that to the list of reasons why Marinakis is apparently keen to do a deal.
The Greek businessman is fiercely ambitious. Now the Reds have shown they can mix it with the big boys, he will want them to stay there. Bringing Edu on board would help Forest push on even further. As Arsenal themselves said, he assisted in driving standards at the Emirates.
Kaya Kaynak, who covers the club for our sister site FootballLondon, has talked of Edu’s influence on a change in atmosphere. Strong negotiating skills, an eye for transfers and an “endless” list of contacts were all picked out as key qualities. “He's a charismatic guy, too, which doesn't hurt,” Kaynak added.
The Reds have a very good recent record of their own when it comes to making signings. And given everything is going so well on the pitch at present, there is no real need to change too much.
But to keep competing in the Premier League, no club can afford to stand still. That applies even more so as Forest bid to upset the established order.
If Nuno Espirito Santo’s men maintain their eye-catching form and European football looks on the cards, then the January window will be key. Perhaps that is where Edu can come in, strengthening a recruitment set-up which also includes chief football officer Ross Wilson, global technical director George Syrianos and head of recruitment Pedro Ferreira.
“He had a huge role in transfers,” Kaynak said. “Edu is a man with a seemingly endless contacts book. He knows how to work a room and charm agents and players. He's also a strong negotiator when he has to be.”
Since promotion, there has been a focus Trentside on having an “elite” mentality. Improvements made to the training ground over the summer are part of that.
“The backing from the owner, not only at the City Ground but at the training ground, has been massive,” midfielder Ryan Yates said when the refresh was unveiled. “Year on year he’s constantly improving things. The owner looks at every single detail of what can be improved.”
Edu gives the impression of being a man with a similar eye. Uniting with Marinakis could prove to be quite the partnership.
