Carlos Cuesta is departing Arsenal after five years to become the head coach of Parma. The 29-year-old Spaniard, a key member of Mikel Arteta's backroom staff since joining in August 2020, is finalizing a deal to become the second-youngest head coach in Serie A history.

Cuesta, who previously worked at Atletico Madrid and Juventus, has built a strong reputation as one of the brightest young coaches in the game. His move to Parma is driven by the club's president, Kyle Krause, who is looking for progressive coaches with tactical clarity and a focus on player development. Parma believes that the methods Cuesta developed at Arsenal under Arteta are transferable and can bring stability and upward momentum to the Serie A team. They expect Cuesta to implement a possession-based style focused on youth development, reflecting the principles he helped instill at Arsenal.

Despite his departure, Cuesta remains optimistic about Arsenal's future under Arteta. In an emotional farewell message on Instagram, he expressed his gratitude for his time at the club and insisted that "the best is yet to come" for the Gunners. He thanked the players, staff, directors, and fans for their support and praised the culture, hunger, and unity within the organization. Cuesta specifically thanked Arteta for his trust and mentorship, acknowledging the opportunity to work alongside him and learn the meaning of courage.

Cuesta's departure is a blow for Arsenal, as he was a close ally of Arteta and a valuable member of the coaching staff. However, his move to Parma is seen as a testament to his talent and potential. He leaves Arsenal with the belief that the club is on the right track and that even greater success lies ahead. He is set to become the youngest manager in Serie A history since the league adopted a single division in 1929. Final details of his contract are expected to be confirmed imminently, with local reports suggesting a two-year deal worth just under £850,000 per season has already been agreed.