Premier League side Arsenal have confirmed the appointment of Andrea Berta as the club’s new sporting director.
“We are delighted to announce that Andrea Berta is joining the club as Sporting Director. Andrea is a hugely respected figure in football and brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience,” Arsenal said in a statement on Sunday.
The 53-year-old Italian, who spent 12 years with Atletico Madrid before leaving in January, succeeds the Gunners’ former midfielder Edu in the role.
Edu left Arsenal in November to join Greek businessman Evangelos Marinakis’ stable of clubs which include Nottingham Forest, Olympiakos, and Rio Ave.
Berta, who has a background in banking, held roles with Italian sides Parma and Genoa before joining Spanish giants Atletico, initially as technical director, in 2013.
During his time with the club, Atletico won two LaLiga titles, the Copa del Rey, and Europa League, as well as the UEFA Super Cup.
Berta said: “I am thrilled to be joining Arsenal in what is a hugely exciting period for the club.
“I have watched with great interest the way Arsenal has evolved in recent years and I have admired the hard work that has gone into re-establishing the club as a major force in European football with a passionate following around the world.
Arsenal sporting director Edu to leave club
“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.”
Berta has a busy summer ahead with Arsenal set to finish second in the Premier League for the third consecutive season.
Many consider that Mikel Arteta’s squad is in need of a prolific striker to deliver the club’s first league title in over 20 years.
But Berta also faces crucial contract renewal negotiations with some of Arsenal’s key players, including Bukayo Saka, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, and Gabriel Martinelli, all of whom have just over two years left on their current deals.
Arsenal co-chairman Josh Kroenke said: “Anyone who knows football knows Andrea is an impressive figure. 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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