Who is Andrea Berta? All you need to know about Arsenal’s new sporting director

Former Atletico Madrid sporting director Andrea Berta has reached an agreement with Arsenal, bringing a wealth of experience from his successful tenure in Spain.

Premier League club Arsenal have reached an agreement with Andrea Berta. They’ve appointed him as their new sporting director, replacing Edu Gaspar, who resigned back in November. The 53-year-old Italian previously spent 12 years at Atletico Madrid. He was among several candidates considered during an extensive hiring process.

🚨 Arsenal reach an agreement with Andrea Berta as their new sporting director.
– Berta topped a five-candidate shortlist.
– Advanced and positive negotiations last week.
– Berta gave preference to EPL gigs and has been taking English lessons since January.
– #MUFC considered… https://t.co/q3og3BkTxN pic.twitter.com/kGGMyBxMtU
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) March 8, 2025

The news of the deal agreement comes on the day of Arsenal’s crucial Premier League match against Manchester United. As per reports, his appointment has been approved by Arsenal’s managing director Richard Garlick, executive vice-chair Tim Lewis, and manager Mikel Arteta.

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Who Is Andrea Berta?

Originally from Brescia, Italy, Andrea Berta began his career in football administration at the AC Carpenedolo before he joined Parma back in 2007. His first major role came with Genoa in 2009, where he played a key role in transfers. Especially, the signing of Hernan Crespo and Rodrigo Palacio.

Berta moved to Atletico Madrid in 2013 as their technical director and then became their sporting director in 2017. Under his guidance, Atletico became serious contenders in Spain. They won two La Liga titles (2013-14, 2020-21), a Europa League (2017-18), and finished as Champions League runners-up twice.

Andrea Berta’s best signings at Atletico Madrid

At Atletico, Berta gained a reputation for right player recruitment. During his time, they signed world-class talents like Antoine Griezmann, Jan Oblak, and Rodri and oversaw big-money moves for Joao Felix, Julian Alvarez, and Thomas Lemar. His ability to identify and sign future stars made him one of the most respected sporting directors in Europe.

Since leaving Atletico this January, Berta has been studying English in London. Seemingly, he had been preparing for a move to the Premier League. He had several offers from top clubs but looking at Arsenal’s project, he prioritized the Premier League club.

Speaking about Arsenal’s thorough selection process, Mikel Arteta reassured the fans saying, “The club is doing the process that we believe is the best to try to find the person that is the best one for the moment that Arsenal is in right now.”

Berta’s track record suggests he will be playing a key role in strengthening Arsenal’s squad ahead of the summer transfer window. His expertise in player scouting and squad building aligns with the Gunners’ ambitions to challenge for major trophies in coming years.

Andrea Berta

Arsenal

Atletico Madrid

Edu Gaspar

Moumita Dutta

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Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.