Martin Keown fears Edu’s shock resignation could lead to Arsenal losing one of their key players in William Saliba.
The Brazilian confirmed his shock resignation earlier this week, leaving Arsenal without a sporting director, just weeks before the January transfer window opens.
Edu has been credited with playing a major role in the north London club’s resurgence in recent years, overseeing a transfer policy that has brought the likes of Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice and Leandro Trossard to the Emirates Stadium.
The club’s former midfielder also helped ensure the likes of Bukayo Saka and William Saliba signed new deals but both contracts will need to be renegotiated in the not too distant future which represents a concern for Keown.
‘Not too much,’ said Keown initiallyI think it’s a network of people. Richard Garlick and Tim Lewis do a really good job in the background so they’ll have assistants to help.
‘Nonetheless it’s not an ideal. He’s role model as well isn’t he. He sorts out all the contracts for the players.
‘You’re going to have a situation coming up with Saliba with his contract with clubs are going to maybe come in for him. I’m really disappointed. I’m shocked.
‘Maybe it’s the pressure of the job. He goes with our blessing but we didn’t want to lose him.’
Announcing his decision to leave, meanwhile, Edu said earlier this week: ‘This was an incredibly hard decision to make.
‘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. It has been a special journey and I thank Stan, Josh, Tim and Lord Harris for the support they’ve given me.
‘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.
‘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.’
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