Arsenal chief who hired Mikel Arteta ‘decides to quit’ as succession plan takes shape
Vinai #Vinai
Arsenal chief executive Vinai Venkatesham is set to leave the Emirates Stadium next summer in search of a new challenge, the club have confirmed. Venkatesham is highly regarded in the industry, and will surely be a big loss once his lengthy stint in north London comes to an end.
Venkatesham was the driving force behind Mikel Arteta’s appointment in 2019. With the manager’s job then vacant, he was spotted leaving the Spaniard’s mansion in the early hours of the morning after successful talks.
Four years on, the Gunners are in a healthy position, and Arteta’s leadership saw them run Manchester City close for the Premier League title in 2022/23. However, the club have confirmed that Venkatesham, who first joined in 2010, has decided to step down at the end of the campaign.
“This was a tough decision, but it is time to pursue another challenge,” he said as part of a statement released on the club website. “Now is not the time for goodbyes as I remain focused until my last day and supporting a seamless transition.”
Meanwhile, Arsenal co-chairman Josh Kroenke added: “The Board is fully supportive of Vinai’s desire to pursue his next challenge. 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.”
Although yet to reach their scintillating best, Arsenal have made an unbeaten start to the Premier League season, sitting two points behind Man City after four matches.
The international break has given many of Arteta’s players an opportunity to refresh before domestic action resumes this weekend. The Gunners face a trip to Goodison Park on Sunday, with Everton fighting for precious points to avoid being dragged into another relegation scrap.