Carlos Cuesta is officially leaving Arsenal to begin his managerial journey at Serie B side Parma, where he will step in to replace Christian Chivu following the Romanian’s move to Inter Milan.
After five seasons working as a core member of Mikel Arteta’s coaching setup, Cuesta now ventures into first-team management. The 29-year-old has been one of the youngest and most respected figures behind the scenes at Arsenal, helping guide the Gunners through significant progression in recent years.
In a heartfelt farewell message, Cuesta reflected on his time at the club, expressing gratitude for the unity, culture, and daily inspiration he experienced at the Emirates. He commended the Arsenal staff, players, and supporters for creating a journey he’ll always cherish and made clear his belief that the club’s brightest moments are still to come.
The Spaniard’s connection with the squad has been well-documented. Former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka once highlighted Cuesta’s tactical acumen and people skills, explaining that the coach’s clear communication and emotional intelligence left a lasting impression on the team.
His move to Parma is seen as a natural next step for a coach whose reputation has grown rapidly across European football. Known for his deep understanding of player development and strategic insight, Cuesta’s rise was anticipated by many within the game.
Beyond the team, Cuesta also shared a personal tribute to Arteta on social media, crediting him for shaping his coaching mindset and for showing true leadership throughout their time working together. He described Arteta as an exceptional mentor and thanked him for the opportunity to grow within one of England’s biggest clubs.
With Parma placing their trust in one of the brightest young minds in coaching, Cuesta’s journey now continues in Italy. His time at Arsenal leaves behind a legacy of innovation and integrity, and he exits with admiration from fans and colleagues alike.