Arsenal have officially announced Andrea Berta as their new sporting director.
The 53-year-old Italian takes on the role as a permanent replacement for Edu Gaspar, who departed Emirates Stadium at the end of 2024.
Following Edu’s exit, his deputy Jason Ayto stepped in as interim sporting director and was a strong candidate for the full-time position before the club opted for Berta.
Berta is expected to be present when Arsenal face Fulham in the Premier League on Tuesday night.
“I am thrilled to be joining Arsenal in what is a hugely exciting period for the club,” Berta said in a statement. “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.”
Widely regarded as one of the most astute sporting directors in European football, Berta brings extensive experience to North London.
BREAKING: Arsenal have appointed Andrea Berta as their new sporting director 🚨 pic.twitter.com/KUxAuox2ln
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) March 30, 2025
His career includes time at Italian clubs Parma and Genoa before he joined Atletico Madrid in 2013, initially serving as their technical director. During his tenure at Atletico, he played a key role in securing signings such as Rodri, Antoine Griezmann, and Jan Oblak.
Arsenal co-chairman Josh Kroenke expressed his enthusiasm for the appointment, saying: “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.
“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.”
