Edu is joining us from the Brazilian Football Confederation as our first technical director.



The former Gunner - a member of the Invincibles - comes to us straight after helping Brazil win their first Copa America in 12 years. He will be on the flight to the United States as our pre-season tour gets underway on Thursday.



In his role as technical director, Edu will coordinate the work of our first-team coaching group, the academy and player scouting and recruitment in order to oversee the constant building up and efficient strengthening of our squad.

Edu



Head of football Raul Sanllehi said: “We’re very excited that Edu is joining the team. He has great experience and technical football knowledge and most importantly is a true Arsenal man. He understands the club and what we stand for to our millions of fans around the world.



“His arrival is the final and very important part of the jigsaw in our development of a new football infrastructure to take us forward. He will be working closely with Unai Emery and the first-team coaches, and will play a relevant role leading our football vision and ensuring we have - and follow - a solid philosophy through all our football activities.”



Edu said: “Arsenal has always had a special place in my heart and I’m thrilled to be returning to this great club in this new role. We have a strong squad and some very talented young players with fantastic people at every level. I’m looking forward to helping make a difference.”

Edu



Edu spent five seasons with us from 2001, making 30 appearances in our 2003/04 unbeaten season. A hugely-talented midfielder and fans’ favourite, Edu represented Brazil 22 times and also had two spells with Corinthians and played for Valencia under Emery.

After ending his playing career in 2010, he became Corinthians director of football and has been the general coordinator of the Brazil national team, a role similar to the one he’s taken with us, since 2016.