Mikel Arteta sends exciting message to Arsenal fans after major boardroom shake-up | OneFootball

Gunners boss reacts to behind-the-scenes changes as Tim Lewis steps down and four new appointments confirmed

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Executive vice-chair Tim Lewis stepped down from his role on Friday morning, with Richard Garlick promoted from managing director to chief executive officer (CEO).

Four new additions have been made to Arsenal’s board following Lewis’ departure, with Kelly Blaha and Otto Maly joining as non-executive directors.

Dave Steiner, a long-time advisor to the Kroenke family, is now also part of the board along with famed producer and director, Ben Winston.

“Wonderful future, that’s the only thing that I can say,” said Arsenal boss Arteta, when asked about the boardroom changes.

News of Lewis’ departure on Friday came as a shock to Arsenal supporters given his long-standing connection to the Kroenke family.

Lewis has been advising them since 2007 and joined the Arsenal board as a director five years ago.

He was promoted to the role of executive vice-chair in March 2023 and Arteta has praised the work that happened during his time at the club.

“Well, I was aware in certain moments [about the boardroom changes], and I had various discussions with Josh especially, and as well with Tim,” said Arteta.

“It is not the first time that it has happened since I have been here and, again, incredible gratitude towards Tim for what he has been doing for the football club, what he has done for the team, for myself personally as well.

“Everybody is in different phases of their lives and requires different things and that’s it, we move on.

“There have been quite a lot of changes since I arrived at the club. First of all, obviously Tim is leaving and I would like to say a few words because he has been someone that I really enjoy working with.

“I think he has made a tremendous contribution for everything that we have done over the last few years.

“Then, on Rich, congratulations, because it is a massive role to be the CEO of this football club.

“And, then, welcome to the new members of the board. Hopefully, they are going to make us better and help us, and bring new ideas and support, and make this club much better.

“It is ultimately Stan and Josh’s decision. They have been incredibly supportive, so we move on again.”