Mikel Arteta to lose another member of his backroom staff to Manchester United

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Arsenal head of medical services, Gary O’Driscoll, has decided to leave the club and join Manchester United.

The 52-year-old doctor, who has been a crucial figure in north London since his arrival in 2009, is expected to complete the switch to United later this summer.

O’Driscoll’s departure comes as a blow to Arsenal, as he has been an instrumental part of the team’s success over the years. In 2020, he was on the verge of signing for Liverpool but chose to stay at Arsenal. He has also rejected other opportunities to leave the club in the past.

Despite being highly regarded and immensely popular at Arsenal, the chance to join Manchester United proved too good to refuse for O’Driscoll. Additionally, the move allows him to be closer to his family in the north-west, adding to the appeal of the opportunity.

Manchester United had been searching for a replacement since the departure of Steve McNally in December 2022. McNally was temporarily replaced by former Liverpool doctor Jim Moxon. It is now expected that Moxon will remain a part of the medical team under O’Driscoll’s leadership. Gary O’Driscoll, who has previously worked in rugby, is widely recognized as one of the best in his field.

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United conducted an extensive search, utilizing headhunters to identify several top-level candidates for the position. O’Driscoll’s exceptional professional credentials, vast experience, personality, and character set him apart from the other contenders and made him the standout choice for the role.

While Arsenal will undoubtedly feel the impact of O’Driscoll’s departure, a transition period has been planned to allow him to help integrate his successor seamlessly. The move is reported to have taken place on amicable terms, ensuring a smooth handover process.

During O’Driscoll’s tenure at Arsenal, the club has achieved notable success, including winning four FA Cups and finishing as Premier League runners-up last season. Under his guidance, Arsenal also secured a return to the Champions League after a six-year absence.

O’Driscoll’s imminent departure comes few days after Arsenal first-team assistant coach Steve Round left the club by mutual agreement.

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