The former Arsenal midfielder has been away from the stands since February, and his departure has been widely anticipated, with reports suggesting his contract has now been terminated.
Edu’s position became increasingly uncertain following his dispute with Nuno Espirito Santo, who was dismissed in September after becoming the first of four managers to take charge of Nottingham Forest during the previous season.
At the time, Nuno alluded to tensions behind the scenes and revealed that his relationship with Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis had deteriorated.
Edu is not expected to have a direct replacement at Forest, with chief football officer George Syrianos set to take over his responsibilities.
Edu joined the club in July 2025, taking on a broader role that also covered Marinakis-owned Greek club Olympiacos and Portuguese side Rio Ave.
His arrival at Forest followed a six-year spell with Arsenal, where he became the club’s first sporting director in 2022. During his playing career in north London, Edu won two Premier League titles and two FA Cups.
As Arsenal’s sporting director, he played a key role in bringing Mikel Arteta to the Emirates Stadium, with Arteta eventually guiding the Gunners to their first Premier League championship in 22 years last season.
Edu’s exit comes shortly after former Olympiacos vice-president Theodore Giannikos was appointed Forest chief executive last week.
Giannikos succeeded Lina Souloukou, who left her position at the City Ground at the conclusion of last season.