Edu Leaves Nottingham Forest as Global Head of Football

Nottingham Forest’s global head of football Edu has left the club after just over a year at the City Ground, according to BBC Sport. The former Arsenal midfielder departed following a contract termination process that had been expected after he missed attendance at matches since February.

Leadership Overhaul at the City Ground

Appointed in July 2025, his broad remit originally included oversight of Greek side Olympiacos and Portuguese club Rio Ave, both of which are also owned by Evangelos Marinakis, according to BBC Sport. However, his tenure came under intense internal spotlight following a reported falling-out with manager Nuno Espirito Santo. Nuno was sacked last September as the first of four different managers to lead Forest during a tumultuous season, having previously hinted at internal tensions and noting a shift in his relationship with Marinakis.

Did you know? Edu’s multi-club remit under Evangelos Marinakis spanned across English, Greek, and Portuguese football operations before his departure.

Restructuring Under George Syrianos and Theodore Giannikos

Rather than appointing a direct successor for the global head of football role, Nottingham Forest has shifted operational duties internally. According to BBC Sport, chief football officer George Syrianos is set to assume Edu’s former responsibilities. This executive reorganization follows the appointment of former Olympiacos vice-president Theodore Giannikos as the club’s new chief executive. Giannikos stepped into the position last week, succeeding Lina Souloukou, who departed the City Ground at the conclusion of last season.

Background From Arsenal to Nottingham Forest

Before taking on the global football role at Forest, Edu spent six years at Arsenal. According to the reported records, he became the London club’s first sporting director in 2022. During his playing days at Arsenal, he secured two Premier League titles and two FA Cups. As part of his executive tenure with the Gunners, he brought manager Mikel Arteta to the Emirates Stadium, laying the groundwork for a squad that captured Arsenal’s first Premier League title in 22 years last season.

Edu Leaves Nottingham Forest After Just Over a Year in Global Role
Photo: tournaments.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Who replaced Edu at Nottingham Forest?

Forest does not plan to appoint a direct replacement; instead, chief football officer George Syrianos is assuming Edu’s responsibilities, according to BBC Sport.

Edu at the City Ground
Photo: bbc.co.uk

Which clubs were included in Edu’s global remit?

As global head of football, Edu’s responsibilities covered Nottingham Forest, Greek club Olympiacos, and Portuguese club Rio Ave.

Who is Nottingham Forest’s chief executive?

Former Olympiacos vice-president Theodore Giannikos was appointed chief executive last week, succeeding Lina Souloukou, according to BBC Sport.


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