Eduardo Cesar Gaspar Brazilian footballer Date of Birth: 15.05.1978 Country: Brazil

1. Early Life and Career
2. Arsenal Transfer Saga
3. Unfortunate Debut and Setbacks
4. Establishing Himself at Arsenal
5. Departure from Arsenal
6. Injury Woes Continue
7. Return to Corinthians

Early Life and Career

Edu Gaspar, a Brazilian footballer, began his career in 1998 with Corinthians. In his first two seasons, he played a crucial role in the club's Campeonato Brasileiro victories in 1998 and 1999, as well as their triumph in the FIFA Club World Championship in 2000.

Arsenal Transfer Saga

After the Club World Championship, Edu signed a contract with Arsenal but the deal was canceled due to a fake Portuguese passport. Following several months of complications, he obtained an EU passport through his father's Italian ancestry. On January 16, 2001, Edu finally joined Arsenal for a transfer fee of €9 million.

Unfortunate Debut and Setbacks

Edu's official debut for Arsenal was delayed by a family tragedy as his sister died in a car accident. When he finally played against Leicester City, he suffered an injury after only 15 minutes and missed the remainder of the season, appearing in only 4 games. The first two seasons at Arsenal were largely unsuccessful, preventing him from making Brazil's World Cup-winning squad in 2002.

Establishing Himself at Arsenal

During the 2003-2004 season, Edu became a regular starter under Arsene Wenger's guidance. Rumors emerged about his potential eligibility for English citizenship, but he eventually returned to the Brazilian national team in 2004, playing in a friendly match and the Copa America.

Departure from Arsenal

As Edu's contract with Arsenal expired in 2005, he attempted to buy Valencia but failed to meet the club's financial demands. Despite interest from Juventus, Milan, and Barcelona, Edu signed with Valencia for five years on May 30, 2005.

Injury Woes Continue

During preseason with Valencia, Edu suffered an injury that kept him sidelined for most of the season. His debut came on April 4, 2006, against Cádiz. This injury also prevented him from participating in the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

Return to Corinthians

In 2009, Edu expressed a desire to return to Corinthians, and his wish was granted. He finished his professional career with his boyhood club, winning the Campeonato Paulista in 2013.