Discussions underway: Ex-Liverpool star in talks regarding possible Arsenal transfer.

Ex-Liverpool Midfielder in Talks Over Arsenal Return for Sporting Director Role

A former Liverpool player is reportedly in discussions about a potential return to Arsenal, this time in a non-playing capacity, as the club searches for a new sporting director following Edu’s departure in November.

Arsenal has been without a sporting director since Edu’s exit, mirroring a situation Liverpool experienced last year between Jorg Schmadtke’s departure and Richard Hughes’ appointment. The vacant role at the Emirates could now be filled by someone who has played for both of the current Premier League frontrunners.

Benayoun Linked with Arsenal Sporting Director Role

According to Football Insider, Yossi Benayoun has engaged in discussions with Arsenal regarding the possibility of becoming their new sporting director. This comes a year after he left a similar position with the Israel national team.

The 44-year-old former winger, who previously played for Liverpool, Chelsea, and Arsenal, also held a sporting director role at Beitar Jerusalem. He appears keen on a return to the Premier League in a behind-the-scenes capacity, stating:

“Of course I would be interested in a sporting director role in England, but I am also a pro-licensed coach. Let’s see what comes up.”

A Controversial Move for Liverpool Fans

Despite his stints at Chelsea and Arsenal after leaving Anfield in 2010, Benayoun remains a respected figure among Liverpool supporters due to his key contributions—becoming the first player to score hat-tricks in the Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup for the Reds, and famously netting the winner against Real Madrid in 2009.

However, if he were to take the Arsenal job, it might not sit well with Liverpool fans, especially given the growing rivalry between the two clubs as they battle for domestic supremacy following Manchester City’s recent struggles.

While Benayoun may still feel a connection to Arsenal after his time there as a player, Liverpool supporters might not be thrilled about seeing him oversee transfers for a direct competitor. Could the former Anfield star end up shaping a Gunners squad designed to challenge his old club at the top? Time will tell.