Arsenal shake-up continues as Freddie Ljungberg leaves coaching set-up

The Swede had been back at the Gunners for two years and was most recently assistant to manager Mikel Arteta

Freddie Ljungberg took interim charge of the Arsenal first team after Unai Emery was sacked and prior to Mikel Arteta's appointment. PA Wire

Former Arsenal midfielder and interim manager Freddie Ljungberg has left the club's coaching set-up to pursue new opportunities, the Premier League club announced on Saturday.

Ljungberg, part of the "Invincibles" side that won the Premier League in 2003-04, had been back at Arsenal for two years and was most recently assistant to manager Mikel Arteta.

The 43-year-old Swede had a brief spell as caretaker manager last season after the sacking of Unai Emery in late November.

"I have decided to leave my first-team assistant coaching role at Arsenal to progress my management experience," Ljungberg told the club's website.

"I have been involved with this club on and off since 1998 and am grateful for all the opportunities they have given me both as a player and as a coach.

"I wish Mikel and all the team every success for the season ahead. Thanks also to the fans for their constant support and for always being by my side."

Technical director Edu said he was sad to see Ljungberg leave. "We know he has had various opportunities over the last 12 months and stuck to the job at Arsenal.

"Now he has the opportunity to consider other options, and it makes sense for his career at this time."

Ljungberg's departure adds to the shake-up at Arsenal following the departure of head of football Raul Sanllehi who was replaced by Vinai Venkatesham.

Edu and head coach Arteta now head up the club's footballing and recruitment policy with Venkatesham adapting his former role as managing director to act as a link to American owners Stan and Josh Kroenke.

________________

Arsenal's 2019/20 player season ratings