The post-match mixed zone, a gauntlet of eager journalists vying for player interviews, can often be a somber affair. Players, weary from the battle, typically rush past, heads down, eager to escape the spotlight. But in the wake of Arsenal’s pre-season victory over Bayer Leverkusen, a beaming smile and a wave of charisma radiated from Edu, the club’s sporting director, as he emerged from the Emirates Stadium’s lift. It was a glimpse of the interpersonal skills that have propelled him to director level, a “people person” as former striker Alan Smith describes him. A close ally of manager Mikel Arteta, Edu is a popular figure throughout the club, making his resignation, to join the network of clubs run by Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis, a significant blow to Arsenal.
Edu’s tenure, which began in 2019 as technical director, has seen him play a pivotal role in the club’s comprehensive rebuild. Under his guidance, alongside Arteta, Arsenal have navigated a turbulent period, demonstrating a blend of shrewd acquisitions and painful departures. While the transfer market has seen its share of successes and missteps, with the club spending more on signings than they’ve recouped through sales, the overall transformation is undeniable. Arsenal, five years ago, is a shadow of its current self, a testament to the progress spearheaded by Edu.
Despite his affable demeanor, Edu’s influence extends beyond mere personality. He has provided Arteta with both support and constructive criticism. When asked about the extensive squad overhaul in 2022, a period Arteta described as unprecedented in its upheaval, the manager spoke of a collaborative environment where disagreements were openly discussed and resolved. “We have people who say what they think, then go away and work on it and present their reasons why,” Arteta stated, emphasizing their commitment to a shared decision-making process that involves the Kroenke-family owners and board members. “We decide whatever we decide on this table, then we leave the room, and it’s our decision.”
Edu’s departure, while undoubtedly a setback, does not disrupt this collaborative spirit. However, it does mark a new chapter for Arsenal, one that unfolds amidst a period of on-field inconsistency. After a phenomenal run last season, securing 16 wins in their final 18 Premier League games, Arsenal have faltered this term, winning only five out of ten. They currently sit seven points off the top, a stark contrast to their dominant form a year ago. While supporter anxieties are understandable, it’s crucial to acknowledge the mitigating factors that have significantly impacted their performance.
The most significant factor is the injury crisis that has ravaged Arsenal’s squad. Key players like Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Jurrien Timber, and new signings Riccardo Calafiori and Mikel Merino have all been sidelined, hindering the team’s ability to maintain their rhythm and consistency. This already challenging situation has been further exacerbated by three controversial red cards, resulting in Arsenal playing 16% of their total Premier League minutes with ten players.
These red cards, shown to Declan Rice against Brighton, Leandro Trossard against Manchester City, and William Saliba against Bournemouth, have significantly impacted Arsenal’s results, leading to dropped points in all three matches. While the underlying statistics demonstrate Arsenal’s continued offensive potency and defensive solidity, the impact of playing with a man down cannot be ignored.
While some criticize Arteta’s approach against title rivals Manchester City and Liverpool, his record against these giants speaks for itself. Arsenal are unbeaten in three Premier League games against Guardiola’s side and unbeaten in five against Liverpool.
Despite their current struggles, it is essential to maintain a long-term perspective. While Arsenal are not where they want to be in the table, they remain a formidable force with a clear vision under Arteta. The impact of injuries and red cards has been significant, but they are factors that are gradually resolving. As the squad regains its full strength, and the team continues to refine its tactics and understanding, Arsenal will undoubtedly challenge for the top once again.
