Nottingham Forest have pulled off a major coup by appointing former Arsenal sporting director Edu as their new global head of soccer. The Brazilian takes charge of a newly created role that will see him oversee all soccer operations at the City Ground.
The 47-year-old left Arsenal in November 2024 after five years at the Emirates Stadium. His departure shocked many. He had been instrumental in transforming the Gunners into genuine title contenders once again.
Forest confirmed Edu will handle recruitment, performance, squad strategy and player development. But his role extends beyond the City Ground. He will also work across owner Evangelos Marinakis’ soccer empire, which includes Greek side Olympiacos and Portuguese club Rio Ave.
A Proven Track Record
Edu’s CV speaks for itself. As a player, he won two Premier League titles with Arsenal between 2001 and 2005. He was part of the legendary 2003-04 ‘Invincibles’ team that went the entire season unbeaten.
His administrative career began at Corinthians in 2011, where he served as director of soccer for five years. He then coordinated Brazil’s national team from 2016 to 2019 before returning to Arsenal as technical director.
At Arsenal, Edu’s impact was immediate. He played a key role in appointing Mikel Arteta as manager in December 2019. The Gunners won the FA Cup in Arteta’s first season. Though major silverware has eluded them since, Arsenal became consistent top-four finishers under Edu’s guidance.
Forest’s Ambitious Vision
The appointment signals Forest’s growing ambitions. The club finished seventh last season under Nuno Espirito Santo, securing Europa Conference League qualification. Nuno has since signed a new contract running until 2028.
Forest’s statement emphasised Edu’s global experience and winning mentality. Marinakis sees him as the man to build a sophisticated international soccer model.
“I’m truly excited about this new chapter,” Edu said. “This project connects deeply with my values around innovation and long-term planning. I look forward to building a global soccer model that is competitive, sustainable, and aligned with our president’s ambition.”
Multi-Club Strategy
Marinakis’ multi-club ownership model gives Edu a unique platform. The Greek shipping magnate owns Olympiacos outright and has a controlling stake in Rio Ave. He was also in talks to purchase Brazilian side Vasco da Gama last December.
This network could prove invaluable for player development and recruitment. Edu’s Brazilian connections and European experience make him ideally suited to navigate this complex landscape.
What’s Next?
Edu will work closely with Nuno and Forest’s recruitment team as they prepare for European competition. His long-term planning starts now with pre-season already underway.
The Brazilian’s wider remit may include identifying additional club acquisitions to grow Marinakis’ soccer network. His experience at Arsenal, where he helped reshape the club’s sporting direction, will be crucial.
Forest fans will hope Edu can replicate his Arsenal success at the City Ground. His appointment represents a statement of intent from a club with serious European ambitions.
