ARSENAL CEO Vinai Venkatesham has confirmed that he will leave the club next summer.
Venkatesham joined the Gunners in 2010 as head of global partnerships and took on various roles before being promoted to CEO in 2020.
In an official statement to announce his departure, he said: “This was a tough decision, but it is time to pursue another challenge.
“Now is not the time for goodbyes as I remain focused until my last day and supporting a seamless transition.”
Arsenal director Josh Kroenke has already thanked Venkatesham for his 13-year contribution to the club.
The 43-year-old said: “The Board is fully supportive of Vinai’s desire to pursue his next challenge.
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“Whilst it is business as usual with everyone focused on the season ahead, we’d like to take this moment to thank him for his contribution and long service.
“Vinai will always be part of the Arsenal family and always welcome back at Emirates Stadium.
“Change and succession is something the club is well prepared for. The Board remains committed to our strategy and will address leadership change as we continue to drive the club forward.”
Arsenal fans were quick to react to the news, with many praising the club’s CEO.
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One person tweeted: “Vinai took charge during one of the worst periods in our club history and achieved so much with resilience and dedication together with Mikel and Edu.
“Nothing but appreciation and respect, good luck with the transition period and all the best.”
Another wrote: “Thanks for everything, Vinai. Wish him well in the future.”
A third added: “Thank you for your incredible dedication to the club, Vinai Venkatesham. Best wishes for your future endeavors!”
While a fourth person commented: “It’s the end of an era at Arsenal. Vinai Venkatesham’s departure marks a significant change for the club after his long and dedicated tenure. Best wishes to him in his future endeavours, and here’s to a new chapter for the Gunners!”
However, some Arsenal supporters were left thrilled by the announcement, with one person writing: “Thank God, he paid that money for Pepe.”
Another added: “GREATEST DAY OF MY LIFE!”
While a third simply said: “Good.”
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Arsenal have been on a steady rise back up the Premier League table since Venkatesham took over as CEO in 2020.
The Gunners challenged for the title last season and earned a spot in the Champions League for the first time in six years.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
