Arsenal have confirmed the appointment of Andrea Berta as the club’s new sporting director. Former Atletico Madrid chief Berta replaces Edu, who left the Emirates in November.
Italian Berta, 53, will be charged with overseeing a busy summer of transfer activity as Arsenal look to sign a new centre forward with RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko a top target while Newcastle striker Alexander Isak has also been linked. Berta gained a big reputation at Atletico after signing the likes of Rodri, Antoine Griezmann and Jan Oblak and turning them into big stars as well as making huge profits.
Berta announced his departure from Atletico earlier this season, having spent 12 years with the Spanish giants. During his time at Atletico, Berta was one of Europe’s shrewdest operators and helped deliver players to help Diego Simeone win the La Liga title twice, UEFA Super Cup and also the Europa League.
He’ll now work alongside Mikel Arteta in a bid to bring similar success to Arsenal. Other sporting directors to be linked with the vacancy included ex-Manchester United, Newcastle, Brighton and West Brom chief Dan Ashworth, Roberto Olabe of Real Sociedad and Monaco’s Thiago Scuro.
Arsenal’s interim sporting director, Jason Ayto, was also mentioned as a possibility. But now a decision has been made and Berta will lead the Gunners into the summer transfer window.
“I am thrilled to be joining Arsenal in what is a hugely exciting period for the club,” said Berta. “I have watched with great interest the way Arsenal has evolved in recent years and I have admired the hard work that has gone in to reestablishing the club as a major force in European football with a passionate following around the world.
“The club has great values and a rich history, and I am looking forward to playing my part in shaping a successful future with a great team. I cannot wait to get started in my new role and I am really looking forward to experiencing my first game at Emirates Stadium together with our supporters.”
Co-Chair Josh Kroenke highlighted Berta’s network of contacts and ability to construct a winning team.
“Anyone who knows football knows Andrea is an impressive figure,” he said. “He has vast knowledge of the game, a great track record, a strong network and an insatiable desire to build winning teams.
“Andrea will be a great addition to our club. He understands our values and what we stand for and we have no doubt he will help us push on and take the next steps in our bid to win major trophies.
“We undertook a thorough recruitment process and we were hugely impressed with the level of all the other candidates, but it was Andrea’s experience and the success he has enjoyed that stood out.
“We are really looking forward to working together and welcoming him into the Arsenal family.”
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