Tottenham fans are absolutely fuming after the club appointed former Arsenal official Vinai Venkatesham as their new chief executive officer.
Spurs announced the news on Friday, with the 44-year-old set to take over the role in the summer, having previously spent over a decade at their bitter rivals.
Venky's Arsenal background
Venkatesham joined the Gunners in 2010 and held various jobs before becoming their CEO in 2020. He served in this capacity for around four years before departing the Emirates at the end of the 2023/24 campaign.
But after a year out from the game, Venkatesham has now crossed the north London divide to make his return to footy.
Furious Spurs fans react
Spurs released a statement saying they were "delighted" to announce Venkatesham as their new CEO. However, the appointment has gone down like a lead balloon with Tottenham supporters.
One angry fan wrote on X: "Gooners huh." Another commented: "Is this seriously the state of our club where we hire the former CEO of Arsenal?"
With Levy facing criticism from fans for his refusal to splash the cash, an irate user remarked: "Yeah Levy is trolling the fanbase again. This is the last straw. A director from Arsenal! #Levy out."
One Tottenham fan even referenced former fan favourite turned foe Sol Campbell, who left Spurs for Arsenal in 2001. They asked: "What next… Sol Campbell as chief club ambassador? #ArsenalOut."
Venky's achievements at Arsenal
Despite backlash from Spurs fans, Venkatesham's appointment could ultimately prove a major coup, if his achievements at Arsenal are anything to go by.
His time as CEO at the Emirates saw him involved in the appointment of key personnel, including current gaffer Mikel Arteta, and former sporting director Edu.
During his tenure, the Gunners returned to the Champions League and established themselves as title challengers once again.
