Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke has released a joint statement with son Josh after the sudden exit of Raul Sanllehi from the club. He leaves his role as head of football after two-and-a-half years with the Gunners.
Sanllehi was responsible for Arsenal’s transfer strategy but has now been replaced by Vinai Venkatesham.
In a statement the Kroenkes thanked the hard work the 53-year-old had done at the club.
“Raul has made a big contribution during his time with us and will always be part of the Arsenal family,” the Kroenke’s statement said on the club’s website.
“We thank him for all his hard work and expertise and wish him every future success.
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“I am proud to have been part of its history and I thank Stan and Josh Kroenke for this opportunity.”
Sanllehi’s final piece of business was to help Arsenal seal a deal for Willian who moved from Chelsea on a free transfer.
Venkatesham will now be the man Mikel Arteta looks towards as he tries to close the gap on the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City in the Premier League.
“I am thankful to Stan, Josh and the rest of the Arsenal Board for their trust in me. I will miss working closely with my colleague and friend Raul, but I am looking forward to this new challenge,” Venkatesham said.
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“There is much work to do to return Arsenal to the top of the game where we belong, which is what our fans rightly demand.
“While this will not happen overnight, I believe we have many of the critical ingredients to do so. There are many positives to build on across the club.
“While football faces uncertainties ahead as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, I am confident Arsenal will emerge strongly and look forward with confidence.”
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