Edu Gaspar says he is relishing the ‘big responsibility’ of being the first Brazilian Technical Director in the Premier League, following his return to Arsenal.
Edu played for the Gunners for five years between 2000 and 2005 and returns to the club in an executive role, leaving the Brazilian national team after three years in a similar role there.
“I think it’s a big challenge for myself because to be the first technical director at the club will be a big challenge for myself and for the club as well,” he told Arsenal.com.
“I think the Premier League as well, I am the first Brazilian to be in that boat, and that’s a big challenge and a big responsibility.
“I’m really looking forward to improving myself, to giving all my energy for the club, to give my experience in the job and to give to the club as well.
“So it’s a lot of things, and to bring my family here was important as well because in Brazil I was living away from them.
“To be back in London, I will have the opportunity to be together with them again, so that will make me stronger and this was a big point as well.”
Edu believes his past with the club gives him an edge in the job, especially as he will link up with the likes of Freddie Ljungberg and Steve Bould.
“Yes, for me in the beginning, to start that role, it’s important to understand the club first. Because if you don’t understand the club and you don’t understand the people around who help you start to do your real job… for me I am one step in front of it because I really understand he club, I really understand what’s happening, I really understand the fans, I really understand what the club wants to be as well. So that for me makes things much easier.”
