The man credited with piloting Arsenal s move to the Emirates Stadium has parted company with the club, it was announced today. Keith Edelman, managing director for the past eight years, said in a statement that he had left in search of a fresh challenge.

The man credited with piloting Arsenal's move to the Emirates Stadium has parted company with the club, it was announced today.

Keith Edelman, managing director for the past eight years, said in a statement that he had left in search of a fresh challenge.

He will still be retained by the club for a year to ensure that a smooth transformation takes place, according to Sky Sports.

Mr Edelman said: ''I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Arsenal. It has been a very exciting period and I am proud to have contributed to many off-field achievements, not least the Emirates Stadium project.''

Chairman Peter Hill-Wood said that Mr Edelman had played a crucial role in the move from Highbury to the Emirates and as such had helped underpin the future of the business and confirmed Arsenal's position as one of Europe's leading clubs.