Arsenal have announced the appointment of former midfielder Edu as the club's new technical director.
Edu, who leaves a similar position with the Brazil national team, returns to the club where he played for four years after joining in 2001. It is the first time the Gunners have employed someone in such a role.
The club confirmed the appointment on Tuesday afternoon, with Edu set to link up with the squad when they travel to the United States to begin their pre-season tour later this week.
"In his role as technical director, Edu will coordinate the work of our first-team coaching group, the academy and player scouting and recruitment in order to oversee the constant building up and efficient strengthening of our squad," Arsenal said in a statement announcing the 41-year-old's return.
Edu, who formed part of Arsene Wenger's unbeaten Invincibles team of 2003/04, said: "Arsenal has always had a special place in my heart and I'm thrilled to be returning to this great club in this new role.
"We have a strong squad and some very talented young players with fantastic people at every level. I'm looking forward to helping make a difference."
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