MLS Deputy Commisssioner Ivan Gazidis is to become chief executive of English Premier League club Arsenal.
The 44-year-old will take up his post in January, ending his 14-year association with the US league. Gadzidis was instrumental in forming Soccer United Marketing, the league’s lucrative marketing spin-off which owns the World Cup broadcasting rights in the United States, has negotiated MLS TV rights deals and brought Mexican clubs and South American national teams onto US soil for friendlies.
An Arsenal statement to the Stock Exchange said: "Arsenal are delighted to announce that after a thorough recruitment process, Ivan Gazidis has been appointed the new chief executive officer, taking up the position in January 2009."
Club chairman Peter Hill-Wood said: "Ivan's credentials are first class. "It is evident that he has a wealth of business acumen together with a broad knowledge of football that will not only help to maintain Arsenal's pre-eminent standing but enhance our reputation within the football community and international commercial markets."
Gazidis said: "I am delighted to be offered the opportunity to bring that experience to bear at Arsenal - a club rich in heritage and tradition, that is superbly positioned for success in the modern era.
"I relish the prospect of working with the key stakeholders to further propel the club forward.”
