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Arsenal last year began a gradual overhauling of its leadership structure and it gained momentum towards the end of Arsene Wenger’s reign. In fact, the process is seen as one of the reasons for Wenger’s exit from the club after 22 years in charge as manager.
Wenger, as manager, had total control of football matters including transfer policy. He reported directly to the board. The role of Sporting Director of Football as it obtains in some other Premiership clubs did not exist. In fact, Wenger resisted the role of one.
But now, the role of Managing Director, Head of Football and Head of Recruitment have been created.
And as part of the restructuring, the position of manager was scrapped.
New coach Unai Emery who was appointed to replace Wenger, arrived under the title of Head Coach and not Manager.
See the new corporate structure below:
Chairman – Sir Chips Keswick
Chief Executive Officer – Ivan Gazidis
Director – Ken Friar
Director – Lord Harris of Peckham
Director – Stan Kroenke
Director – Josh Kroenke
Managing Director – Vinai Venkatesha
Head of Football – Raul Sanllehi
Head of Recruitment – Sven Mislintat
Head Coach – Unai Emery
Arsenal on Tuesday confirmed that Gazidis will be leaving at the end of October for AC Milan. His replacement is yet to be announced but Josh Kroenke, son of majority owner, Stan, is strong favorite to take the seat. Raul Sanllehi, may also step up to it.
Reports say Gazidis who earned £2.6million a year as salary at Arsenal will now get 3.6million a year which includes an equity stake in Milan.