Arsenal will be dealt a major blow as key ally of Mikel Arteta leaves the club, days after defeat at Newcastle – Arsenal

Arsenal have announced the shock departure of a senior figure at the club, just days after the 1-0 defeat to Newcastle.

The Gunners failed to get a single shot on target after Alexander Isak’s first-half header put the Magpies ahead at St James’ Park.

In that sense, it was an uncharacteristic performance for Mikel Arteta’s side, and they are now already seven points behind leaders Liverpool in the Premier League after ten games.

And the Gunners have now been dealt another blow with sporting director and key Arteta ally Edu set to make a surprise exit from the club.

The reason behind his departure is said to be unclear at this stage, although the Daily Mail reports that it is the Brazilian’s own decision to leave the club following discussions with the upper hierarchy.

It is said that an official announcement will be made within the next 24 hours.

Edu returned to Arsenal in 2019 after featuring in their Invincibles squad as a player and is seen as a key factor behind the extensive changes implemented at the Emirates Stadium.

Perhaps more importantly, he has a strong relationship with Arteta, having played a role in his appointment as manager in December 2019.

Speaking about his working relationship with Edu in 2022, Arteta said: “I hope he stays here for a long time because I think it will be very positive for the club.

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“I have worked very well with him and I think he is a super important figure at the club, representing all the values ​​and ideas that we want to take in the right direction, and hopefully that will be the case.”

“A lot happens at a football club and he plays a big role. He can communicate very well with people and manage a lot of things that happen on a daily basis, so for me and for the team he is very important.”