Ex-Arsenal director on growth under 'red arrow' Arteta

Ex-Arsenal director on growth under 'red arrow' ArtetaImage source, Getty ImagesBySami MokbelSenior football correspondentPublished1 minute agoJames Ellis has witnessed Mikel Arteta's Arsenal revolution first-hand. More than that, he's been an influential figure in the club's rise.Ellis joined the Gunners from Fulham in 2021, and last summer was promoted to the role of technical director.Prior to that he had been head of recruitment - playing a key role in identifying several of the squad battling to win the club's first Premier League title since 2004.He left the club in February following a restructuring of the football leadership team.So how does Ellis feel about the prospect of watching a parade he was due to be involved in?He is magnanimous as he reflects on his departure, saying it doesn't rankle and insisting it hasn't diluted his ambition to return to football. And he provides an insight into the behind-the-scenes workings at the club.Title win 'wonderful for all staff at the club'Arsenal are top of the Premier League - six points ahead of Manchester City before the two teams meet at the Etihad Stadium this weekend. On Wednesday, they reached the semi-finals of the Champions League.The Gunners have stuttered of late but remain in a strong position. When Ellis left, they were five points clear with 11 games to go."Of course, it would have been nice to stay around to see what, hopefully, unfolds," Ellis told BBC Sport."However, it was not meant to be and I just hope for everyone - and I mean everyone - that there is a sense of happiness, contentment and joy at the end of the season."Of course it would be a wonderful achievement for Mikel, staff, the players their families. But also for those who have been at the club for a number of years, those who have contributed to getting to this point."The staff that are in the background, that no-one knows - it is for those people I will be reall...