Berta Emerges as Front-Runner for Arsenal Sporting Director.

Arsenal's Sporting Director Search Takes a New Turn: Berta in the Frame

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

Arsenal’s hunt for a new sporting director has taken a significant step forward, with Andrea Berta, the former sports director of Atletico Madrid, emerging as the top candidate for the role.

Atletico Madrid currently sits second in La Liga with 56 points, while Arsenal holds a similar position in the English Premier League (EPL), second with 54 points. The position at Arsenal has been vacant since November last year, following the sudden departure of Edu Gaspar.

Berta, a seasoned football executive, is now considered the frontrunner for the Arsenal role, with several prominent figures vying for the position, including former Arsenal stars Tomas Rosicky and Gilberto Silva.

Berta’s Extensive Career in Football

Before embarking on his career in football, Berta worked in banking for three decades, specializing in economics and business. His passion for football began in 2002 when he joined AC Carpenedolo, a third-tier Italian club, where he worked until 2006. His performance there earned him a move to Parma as their sporting director.

Berta remained at Parma until 2009, after which he joined Genoa, continuing in the same role. His next move took him to Atletico Madrid in May 2013, initially as the director of technical affairs. Berta’s successful stewardship in this role led to his promotion to sporting director in July 2017, a position he held until his departure earlier this year.

A Reputation for Key Transfers

Berta is widely respected for his ability to secure top-tier players, contributing significantly to Atletico Madrid’s recent success. His acquisitions include standout players such as Jan Oblak, Antoine Griezmann, Rodri, and Yannick Carrasco.

In addition, Berta played a pivotal role in bringing in Julian Alvarez, Alexander Sorloth, and Conor Gallagher, all of whom have become crucial components in Atletico’s ongoing team development.

A Trophy-Filled Career

During his 11-year tenure at Atletico Madrid, Berta helped the club secure numerous prestigious trophies, including two La Liga titles, a Europa League trophy, a Copa del Rey, a Spanish Super Cup, and a UEFA Super Cup.

Berta's work earned him the coveted Globe Soccer Award for Best Sporting Director of the Year in 2019, a testament to his impact on Atletico Madrid’s success.