Tomas Rosicky emerges as a leading contender for Arsenal’s sporting director position.
However, his potential return to the club might not happen until the end of the season.
Currently, Rosicky leads as the sporting director at Sparta Prague, a position he has held since 2018.
He spent a decade as a player at Arsenal and maintains regular communication with the club’s hierarchy while they search for a replacement for Edu.
This dialogue is crucial as they seek a new candidate.
Rosicky enjoys a strong relationship with Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, and academy manager, Per Mertesacker.
Following Edu’s departure to join Nottingham Forest’s owner, Evangelos Marinakis, his former deputy, Jason Ayto, has stepped into the role.
Ayto is poised to manage the January transfer window, but doubts linger regarding his effectiveness in a permanent role.
Rosicky, with his esteemed reputation, stands out as the stronger candidate.
Under his leadership, Sparta Prague has rejuvenated, marking their first Champions League appearance since 2005.
Despite Sparta’s 5-0 defeat to Manchester City in October, they have praised Sparta’s recent achievements, especially their success in clinching a second consecutive league title.
Discussions about Rosicky’s potential move to Arsenal continue, as he seems poised for a new challenge.
Nevertheless, the club’s leadership group, including Arteta and executive vice-chair Tim Lewis, intends to conduct a thorough recruitment process.
As a result, Rosicky likely prefers to finish the season with Sparta, where he aims to help retain the Czech league title.
Interestingly, he began his playing career with Sparta and returned on a free transfer after leaving Arsenal in 2016.
Luis Campos, whose contract with Paris Saint-Germain expires in the summer, is vying for the role.
Phil Giles, Brentford’s director of football, is also under consideration for the position.
However, Arsenal likely prefers candidates with a strong association to the club.