Arsenal CEO Vinai Venkatesham to Step Down Next Summer

 Arsenal CEO Vinai Venkatesham to Step Down Next Summer

Arsenal CEO Vinai Venkatesham to Step Down Next Summer(Image-Getty)

Vinai Venkatesham, the CEO of Arsenal, will be stepping down from his role next summer, as announced by the Premier League club on Thursday.

Venkatesham's association with Arsenal began in 2010, and he progressed through the ranks, eventually becoming the managing director in 2018, following the departure of Ivan Gazidis to AC Milan. He assumed the position of CEO in 2020.

In his statement, Venkatesham expressed the difficulty of his decision to depart but emphasized his commitment to maintaining focus and supporting a smooth transition until his last day.

His departure coincides with a period of resurgence for Arsenal under the management of Mikel Arteta. The team finished second in the Premier League last season, just behind Manchester City, and secured qualification for the UEFA Champions League for the first time since the 2016-17 campaign.

Arsenal's co-chair, Josh Kroenke, expressed the board's full support for Venkatesham's decision to seek a new challenge. He also extended gratitude for Venkatesham's contributions and long service to the club. Kroenke assured that while change and succession are inevitable, the club is well-prepared for such transitions. The board remains committed to their strategic goals and will address leadership changes as they continue to drive the club forward.

As of now, Arsenal occupies the fifth position in the Premier League, trailing the leaders, Manchester City, by two points. Their upcoming fixture is against Everton on Sunday.