Nottingham Forest Appoints Edu as Global Head of Football
Nottingham Forest has appointed Edu, the former Arsenal sporting director, as their global head of football. This newly created position entails overseeing all football-related activities at the City Ground, including recruitment, squad strategy, player development, and performance analysis. In addition, Edu’s role will extend to managing football operations for other clubs under the ownership of Evangelos Marinakis, including Greek team Olympiacos and Portugal’s Rio Ave.
Edu’s Vision and Enthusiasm
Edu expressed his enthusiasm for this new opportunity, stating:
“I’m truly excited about this new chapter and honored by the trust placed in me. This project deeply resonates with my beliefs in innovation and long-term vision. I’m eager to develop a global football model that prioritizes competitiveness and sustainability while aligning with our president’s ambitions.”
Evangelos Marinakis, the owner of Nottingham Forest, shared his excitement regarding Edu’s arrival, highlighting that the director’s extensive global experience and winning perspective fit perfectly with the club’s goals to grow and enhance their international football operations.
Edu’s Background and Previous Experience
Prior to joining Nottingham Forest, the 46-year-old Brazilian had a significant five-year tenure at Arsenal, stepping down in November. Edu, known for his role in the club’s illustrious 2003-04 ‘Invincibles’ team, reflected on his departure from Arsenal as a difficult decision, having served as their first technical director and appointing Mikel Arteta as head coach shortly after his arrival. In his farewell statement, he acknowledged the great relationships built during his time at Arsenal and affirmed that the club would always hold a special place in his heart.
Following a period as director of football at Corinthians and a brief advisory role with the Iranian national team, Edu had been serving as coordinator for the Brazil national team before making his return to English football.
Looking Ahead: Nottingham Forest’s Ambitions
Nottingham Forest is preparing for the upcoming season in the UEFA Conference League, having concluded last season in seventh place under coach Nuno Espirito Santo, who has recently extended his contract until 2028. Meanwhile, Marinakis has strategically placed his shares in the club into a blind trust to comply with UEFA’s regulations concerning multi-club ownership. This move ensures that he will no longer have direct control over Nottingham Forest, particularly as both they and Olympiacos could potentially play in European competitions.
As Nottingham Forest sets its sights on European football, they aim to bolster their operations under Edu’s leadership, leveraging his rich experience and proven track record in the sport.
