The ups and downs of holding executive roles in football sometimes leads big guns into unexpected, ambitious developmental projects.

According to BBC Sport, former Arsenal sporting director Edu Gaspar has taken on a senior advisory role with the owners of League Two side Northampton Town.

The Brazilian executive left Nottingham Forest in September following a difficult spell at the club, during which he was reportedly absent from the stadium and training ground for several months.

He will now advise the new owners of League Two side Northampton Town, whose investment consortium includes former Brazil international Alexandre Pato.

Why Edu has taken on a surprise role at Northampton Town

Former midfielder Edu was Arsenal's Sporting Director until he stepped down in 2024 to take up an offer from Nottingham Forest owner Marinakis.

He was to become the Global Head of Football and oversee multiple clubs owned by the Greek businessman, including Forest, Rio Ave, and Olympiakos.

His time working under Marinakis proved short-lived, with their relationship reportedly deteriorating before Edu's departure was confirmed in September.

Edu's advisory role with Northampton Town's new owners is an unexpected move for an executive who previously helped shape Arsenal's recruitment and football operations.

He will advise Northampton's new owners on sporting matters when requested, following the takeover by a consortium that includes former Chelsea and AC Milan forward Alexandre Pato.

Edu’s roles at Levski Sofia and Northampton Town explained

Shortly after his exit from Nottingham Forest in September, Edu was appointed as a board member for Bulgarian giants Levski Sofia.

His appointment at Sixfields represents part of a broader expansion in his executive advisory portfolio, strengthening his experience level.

His roles at Levski Sofia and Northampton Town give him opportunities to contribute to sporting strategy in two different football environments.

Edu has joined Levski Sofia's board of directors and will advise Northampton's owners on an occasional, as-needed basis.

Edu will experience two different worlds in his new clubs, with Levski Sofia aiming to retain their top-flight crown in Bulgaria and go as far as they can in the UEFA Europa League.

For Northampton Town, the immediate priority is to improve their league position and avoid relegation from the EFL, with the club sitting 23rd in League Two at the time of writing.