express.co.uk

Mikel Arteta's close ally quietly leaves Arsenal in blow for Premier League champions

Arsenal's head of sports science and performance Tom Allen has become the latest behind-the-scenes staff member to leave the club. He announced the news via his LinkedIn page and has now become the fifth employee working in the background to depart Mikel Arteta's circle.

"After nine years at Arsenal, my time at the club has come to an end. It has been an incredible privilege to work at such a special football club and to be part of a first-team environment with such high standards, ambition and care," he wrote in a post shared on Thursday.

"I am proud of the work we have done, the progress made, and the part I have played in supporting players and staff through some brilliant moments. But more than anything, I will remember the people.

"Thank you to the players and everyone behind the scenes who makes the club what it is. I have learned a huge amount from so many good people and I leave with a lot of gratitude."

"A special thank you also to the Arsenal supporters, who have made my family feel so welcome and part of the club over the years. That has meant a huge amount to us. We have loved the journey.

"I leave Arsenal with great memories, lasting relationships and real excitement for the next chapter. The Gunners' lead physical performance coach, Sam Wilson, is also departing after 12 years at the club."

These latest departures come in the wake of the dismissal of Dr Zafar Iqbal in early June, following a campaign that was nearly thrown off course by a string of injuries, yet still resulted in Arsenal claiming the Premier League title.

Executive vice-chairman Tim Lewis and technical director James Ellis have also departed the club over the past 12 months, with both exits handled by Richard Garlick since his elevation to the role of chief executive.

Regarding potential replacements for the vacant positions, former Aston Villa head of medical Arnaldo Abrantes is understood to be on his way to the club, while Granada sporting director Javier Alonso is reportedly set to join Andrea Berta's recruitment operation.

The Gunners have so far confirmed just one addition to their playing squad in Piero Hincapie, while Jakub Kiwior has completed a permanent switch to Porto after spending last season on loan in Portugal.

Morgan Rogers, Bruno Guimaraes and Alex Scott are all believed to be on Arteta's radar as high-profile transfer targets.

When it comes to potential squad depth additions, a move for former Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier is being considered, with the long-term future of second-choice stopper Kepa Arrizabalaga still very much up in the air.

Read full news in source page