Arsenal eye Roberto Olabe as Edu's replacement: What it means for the club’s future

• Arsenal are in advanced talks to appoint Roberto Olabe as sporting director after Edu’s shocking departure to Nottingham Forest
• Olabe, known for his transformative work at Real Sociedad, helped the Spanish club win the Copa del Rey and return to the Champions League
• His collaboration with Mikel Arteta, whom he signed for Sociedad in 2004, could prove pivotal in Arsenal winning the league title

Arsenal are reportedly in advanced negotiations to appoint Real Sociedad’s director of football, Roberto Olabe, as the successor to Edu Gaspar, who shocked fans by resigning earlier last month. 

Edu’s departure, a move to join Nottingham Forest’s multi-club group, left a major gap in Arsenal’s management structure. The Brazilian’s role was widely credited as pivotal in transforming the Gunners into Premier League title contenders under Mikel Arteta.

Edu’s resignation was accompanied by a statement from co-chairman Josh Kroenke, who praised Edu’s contributions, saying, 

“We respect Edu's decision and thank him for his immense contribution and dedication to drive the club forward. Change and evolution are a part of our club. We remain focused on our strategy and winning major trophies. Our succession plan will reflect this continued ambition.”

However, latest reports reveal that Arsenal are closing in on Olabe, who recently announced his intention to leave Real Sociedad after eight successful years. The Spanish director has been a sought-after figure in European football, with clubs like Real Madrid also reportedly interested in his expertise. Adding intrigue to the potential appointment is Olabe’s prior connection with Arteta, as he signed the now-Arsenal boss during his first stint at Real Sociedad in 2004.

Olabe’s tenure at Sociedad was transformative. Under his leadership, the Basque club clinched their first major trophy in over three decades, winning the Copa del Rey in 2021. 

He was instrumental in taking the team to consistent top-six finishes in La Liga and securing a return to the Champions League for the 2023-24 season after a decade-long absence. 

His eye for talent brought stars such as Alexander Isak, Martin Odegaard, David Silva, and Mikel Merino to Sociedad, with some players, including Odegaard, making their way to Arsenal.

Despite his accomplishments, Olabe will face the challenging task of filling Edu’s shoes. During his tenure, Edu played a crucial role in reshaping Arsenal’s squad. 

High earners like Mesut Ozil, Alexandre Lacazette, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, and Nicolas Pepe were offloaded, clearing the path for Arteta’s vision. Edu also facilitated the arrivals of key talents like William Saliba, Martin Odegaard, and Ben White, who have become instrumental in Arsenal’s recent successes.

Transfer round-up: Issues surrounding Arsenal’s new signing, Riccardo Calafiori

Previously, TheRadar reported that Premier League side Arsenal FC were not the only club in the race for the versatile defender, other European giants like Juventus, Real Madrid and the Premier League side, Chelsea were also in contact with the player’s representative. 

The 22-year-old was, however, more convinced with Mikel Arteta’s project. Arsenal fans have been well over the moon following the announcement of their latest signing.