Arsenal Aim to Finalise New Sporting Director Search Before Season Ends, Dan Ashworth Among the Top Candidates 2v37v

Arsenal are actively working to appoint a new sporting director before the end of the 2024/25 season.

Following the resignation of Edu Gaspar in November 2024, the club have compiled a shortlist of potential replacements, with former Manchester United chief Dan Ashworth emerging as a key contender.

Arsenal’s Sporting Director Search Update 111w2n

According to reports from The Athletic, Arsenal’s recruitment process for a new sporting director is well underway.

Edu Gaspar, who initially ed the Gunners as their first-ever technical director in 2019 before being promoted to sporting director in 2022, played a crucial role in shaping the club’s current structure.

His departure has left a significant vacancy that Arsenal are keen to fill before the season concludes.

In the interim, Jason Ayto, who previously served as Edu’s deputy, has been promoted to the role on a temporary basis.

However, the North London club are determined to secure a permanent appointment in the coming months.

Arsenal plan to appoint a new sporting director next month and are in the process of whittling down candidates before their final decision is reached.#AFC

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— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) February 27, 2025

Dan Ashworth and Other Contenders in the Frame w73j

One of the most notable names linked to the role is Dan Ashworth.

The 53-year-old was recently dismissed from his sporting director position at Manchester United by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the INEOS group, despite ing from Newcastle in the summer of 2024.

His extensive experience in recruitment and club development makes him a strong candidate for Arsenal’s vacant position.

Other prominent names on Arsenal’s shortlist include:

• Andrea Berta – Atletico Madrid’s highly respected sporting director, known for his astute transfer dealings.
• Roberto Olabe – Real Sociedad’s director, who has played a key role in the club’s resurgence.
• Thiago Scuro –AS Monaco executive with expertise in global football operations.

While PSGs sporting director Luis Campos was initially rumored to be a target, The Athletic have clarified that the Portuguese executive is not currently in contention.

With the club currently competing on multiple fronts, Arsenal are keen to finalise their sporting director search as soon as possible to ensure a seamless transition.

Mikel Arteta’s squad are set to return to action next Tuesday when they face PSV Eindhoven in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 tie.