Andrea Berta: Arsenal New Sporting Director and the Challenges Ahead

Arsenal have officially appointed Andrea Berta as their new sporting director, bringing in one of Europe’s most respected football minds to shape the club’s future. The 53-year-old Italian arrives with a reputation for shrewd squad-building, having played a major role in Atletico Madrid’s rise to dominance over the past decade.

Berta takes over from Edu, the former Gunners midfielder who departed at the end of 2024, leaving a significant gap in Arsenal’s football operations. While Edu’s deputy Jason Ayto stepped in as interim sporting director and was a strong contender for the full-time role, Arsenal ultimately chose experience and a proven track record at the highest level.

With Berta now in charge, the club hopes to take the final steps toward consistent Premier League and Champions League contention. His first official appearance for Arsenal could come as soon as Tuesday night’s clash with Fulham, where he is expected to be in attendance.

Who Is Andrea Berta?

Kieran Trippier with Atletico president Enrique Cerezo (R) and sports director Andrea Berta (L)

Andrea Berta may not have been a household name in England before this appointment, but in football circles, he is widely regarded as one of the most astute talent spotters and squad architects in the game.

His football career took an unusual path. Unlike many sporting directors, Berta was never a professional player. Instead, he started out in banking before entering the football world through small Italian clubs like Carpenedolo, Parma, and Genoa. However, it was his move to Atletico Madrid in 2013—initially as a technical director—that launched him into the European elite.

During his tenure in Madrid, Berta helped transform Atletico from a competitive team into a genuine powerhouse, overseeing transfers that led to two La Liga titles (2013-14, 2020-21), a Copa del Rey, a Europa League triumph, and a UEFA Super Cup.

Spanish football expert Guillem Balague summed up Berta’s impact:

“He’s seen as the architect of Atletico’s rebuild after their 2014 title-winning team faded. He brought in key players like Antoine Griezmann (twice), Rodri, Luis Suárez, Kieran Trippier, Marcos Llorente, Rodrigo de Paul, and Julian Alvarez, all while working within strict financial limits.”

His transfer record speaks for itself:

• Antoine Griezmann – Signed for £24.8m in 2014, sold to Barcelona for £103m in 2019, then brought back for just £16.5m in 2021.
• Rodri – Bought for £16.5m in 2018, sold to Manchester City for £62.5m a year later.
• Jan Oblak – Signed for just £13m in 2014, now regarded as one of the world’s best goalkeepers.
• Julian Alvarez – Signed from Manchester City for £81.5m in 2023, scoring 23 goals in his first season.

While there were some missteps—such as João Félix, Nikola Kalinić, and Santiago Arias—Berta’s ability to spot high-value, high-impact signings has made him one of Europe’s most respected sporting directors.

What’s on Berta’s To-Do List at Arsenal?

Arsenal confirm Andrea Berta as new sporting director to succeed Edu

Taking over a club like Arsenal comes with high expectations, and Berta will have little time to settle in before diving into a critical summer transfer window.

1. Securing a Goal-Scoring Forward

The biggest issue facing Arsenal is their need for a prolific striker. Despite their strong performances under Mikel Arteta, the lack of a natural goalscorer has cost them in crucial moments.

• Kai Havertz has adapted well in a false-nine role but is not a traditional striker.
• Gabriel Jesus has struggled with injuries and inconsistent form.
• Arsenal have not signed a forward in two consecutive transfer windows, despite obvious need.

Targets have already emerged, with RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Newcastle’s Alexander Isak among those linked to a summer move. However, Newcastle’s potential Champions League qualification could make any deal for Isak expensive and complicated.

2. Adding Creativity & Flair

Another area of concern is Arsenal’s struggles against deep defensive blocks. When opponents sit back, the Gunners sometimes lack a player with the flair and unpredictability to break through tight defenses. A dynamic, creative attacking midfielder or winger could be on Berta’s shopping list.

3. Contract Renewals for Key Players

Arsenal’s current squad stability is one of its biggest strengths, but several key players are approaching contract situations