25 January 2024 , 13:30
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Richard Garlick has been named as Arsenal’s new managing director - a role he will assume from the summer.
Garlick currently serves as the club’s director of football operations and will take on his new post when CEO Vinai Venkatesham departs the club at the end of the season. Garlick joined Arsenal in 2021 having spent three years as the Premier League's director of football.
Josh Kroenke, son of owner Stan, has become integral in the decision making that goes on at the Emirates. Edu, the club's sporting director, was one of Kroenke's appointments with the Brazilian helping Arsenal become competitive at the top of the Premier League once more and believes Garlick can add to their good work.
The American said: "Richard is recognised and respected across the industry for his vast experience, and we were delighted when he joined us back in 2021 to take our football strategy to the next level. He has made an enormous impact since joining us, working closely with our sporting director, Edu, on the development and implementation of the club’s football strategy.
"He has developed strong relationships right across the club and wider industry. Rich has been key to the progress we’ve made as a club – including recent transfers – and I’m thrilled he will now lead our executive team and continue to drive the club forward with passion."
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Garlick added on his new position: "Since joining Arsenal in 2021, I’ve had the privilege to be involved with almost every aspect of this incredible club. I’m excited to take us forward in my new role as we move into the next phase of delivering the vision of our owners, Stan and Josh.
Arsenal's director of football operations, Richard Garlick, will take on a new role this summer (Getty Images)"I’d like to thank the board for the support they’ve given me, and Edu for his support as I pursued this opportunity. I’d also like to thank Vinai for his leadership and contribution to the club over the last 14 years. I look forward to continuing to work with them all as I transition into this new role and drive the club forward."
Arsenal ended a poor run of form over the festive period by seeing off Crystal Palace with a five-star display last weekend. The Gunners had jetted off for a training camp in Dubai and returned to cut the gap at the top of the league, sitting five points off leaders Liverpool.