Monday, November 4, 2024, 12:30
A real earthquake has been unleashed in the Premier League with the recent decision of Edu Gaspar, Arsenal’s sporting director, and Txiki Begiristain, his counterpart at Manchester City, to leave their respective clubs. This unexpected movement has put the focus on an unusual transfer market, where the protagonists are not players or coaches, but rather the sporting directors who have been fundamental in the planning and strategy of these giants of English football.
The departure of Edu Gaspar from Arsenal marks a crucial moment in the recent history of the London club. Since his arrival in 2019, Edu has been a key figure in the team’s restructuring, working closely with Mikel Arteta to restore Arsenal’s competitiveness after years of stagnation. During his management, the club has made significant signings such as Martin Odegaard, Thomas Partey and Declan Rice, which has allowed Arsenal to once again fight for titles in the Premier League and European competitions.
However, Edu’s departure occurs in a complicated context. Arsenal currently occupy fifth position in the Premier League, seven points behind leaders Liverpool, and with a run of results that has caused concern. The lack of consistency in the team’s performance has fueled doubts about the future of Arteta, who now loses one of his closest allies in the club’s management.
According to the Daily Mail, the reasons behind Edu’s departure are still not entirely clear, although a possible internal reorganization at Arsenal has been mentioned. As the club tries to find its direction, the uncertainty created by this transition could affect its performance in the tournament. Furthermore, it has been suggested that Edu could be considered by Nottingham Forest, indicating that his experience and reputation in football could lead to a new challenge.
Begiristain, creator of change
The departure of Txiki Begiristain, a key figure in Manchester City’s success, has been announced for the end of this season. His successor will be Hugo Viana, current sporting director of Sporting de Portugal, who has demonstrated his ability by making strategic signings that have elevated Sporting in the Portuguese league. Viana will officially start in 2025, but will work alongside Begiristain during a transition period to ensure a smooth transfer of responsibilities.
The news has generated a stir in English football, given Begiristain’s importance in building the team that has dominated the Premier League in the last decade. Renowned for his exceptional ability to identify and sign talent, he has been behind crucial decisions that took City to the top, including the acquisition of players who have left a lasting mark on the club’s recent history, with 21 titles in 13 years.
Furthermore, the uncertainty is amplified by the situation of Pep Guardiola, whose contract expires next year and whose future is up in the air after the recent departure of some of his great friends from the club. This raft of changes raises questions about City’s future direction and its ability to maintain its elite status in English and European football.
Klopp, director of seven clubs
In Germany, there has also been significant movement with the confirmation that Jürgen Klopp will take up a new role as global head of football for the Red Bull conglomerate, owner of seven football clubs around the world. Klopp will start in January 2025, adding a new level of dynamism to both the Premier League and other European leagues, especially considering his recent success at Liverpool.
