Nottingham Forest have confirmed the appointment of former Arsenal star, Edu Gaspar, as their new Global Head of Football, marking a significant step in the club’s bid to strengthen its football operations on a global scale.
In a statement released via their official website on Monday, Forest revealed that Edu will take on the newly created leadership role, where he will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of football operations within the club.
“Nottingham Forest is proud to announce the appointment of Edu Gaspar as Global Head of Football, a newly established leadership role overseeing football operations,” the club stated.
“Edu brings a wealth of global football experience, both as a former elite player and a highly respected executive. Since transitioning into football management in 2011, Edu has held senior roles at SC Corinthians Paulista, the Brazilian National Team, and most recently, Arsenal FC, where he has earned widespread acclaim for his innovative and strategic approach to modern football operations.”
The 46-year-old Brazilian boasts an illustrious playing career, having won numerous titles including two Premier League crowns (2002, 2004), two FA Cups (2002, 2005), and a Copa América (2004).
His club honours also feature the FIFA Club World Cup (2000), two Campeonato Brasileiro championships (1998, 1999), and a Copa del Rey (2008).
“Among his playing achievements are two Premier Leagues (2002, 2004), two FA Cups (2002, 2005), one FA Community Shield (2002), two Campeonato Brasileiro (1998, 1999), one FIFA Club World Cup (2000), one Copa América (2004) and one Copa del Rey (2008),” the statement added.
During his tenure as General Coordinator of the Brazilian national team, Edu was instrumental in leading the Seleção to Copa América glory in 2019—their first in 12 years.
“During his time with Brazil as General Coordinator, Edu played a pivotal role in helping the national team lift their first Copa América for 12 years in 2019.”
As he steps into his new role, Edu will lead Forest’s football strategy, with a broad remit covering recruitment, player performance, squad development, and long-term planning.
“As Global Head of Football, Edu will oversee all football-related functions, including recruitment, performance, squad strategy, and player development.”
Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Edu said, “I’m truly excited about this new chapter and honoured by the trust placed in me. This project connects deeply with my values around innovation and long-term planning. I look forward to building a global football model that is competitive, sustainable, and aligned with our President’s ambition.”
Club President Evangelos Marinakis also welcomed Edu’s arrival, citing the alignment of his experience and philosophy with Forest’s long-term objectives.
“We are extremely happy to welcome Edu to our football family. His global experience, values, and winning mindset align perfectly with our objective to strengthen and expand our international football platform.”
With this appointment, Nottingham Forest signals its ambition to build a forward-thinking, globally connected football institution.