Arsenal in talks with their former midfielder as search for Edu’s replacement begins | OneFootball

Arsenal have already initiated discussions with former player Tomas Rosicky as they look to replace departed Sporting director Edu, according to French outlet Foot Mercato.

Academy manager Per Mertesacker is also in the running for the job, and he has pleased the management with the impressive job he has done since his appointment.

Arsenal have already asked Jason Ayto, who was named assistant sporting director last year, to step up to replace the Brazilian on an interim basis as they search for a new sporting director.

Rosicky spent ten seasons with the Gunners, making 247 appearances and winning the FA Cup and FA Community Shield in 2014. He is currently Sparta Prague’s sporting director.

The 44-year-old was named the assistant sporting director of his childhood club in January 2018 before taking up his current role in December that year.

His job has impressed Arsenal, having helped Sparta win two Czech First League titles and two Czech Cups since becoming sporting director.

While Rosicky has what it takes to succeed Edu, the growth their academy has experienced under Mertesacker speaks volumes.

Plenty of youngsters have broken into the first team since he became the academy manager in July 2018.

Arsenal have also been linked with West Ham United technical director Tim Steidten, and more names are expected to emerge going forward.