As expected, Arsenal have announced that former Atletico Madrid decision-maker Andrea Berta will be the club’s new sporting director.
Arsenal’s intentions to appoint Berta weren’t a very well kept secret and it was only a matter of time until the Italian was announced.
In fact, Berta has already recommended a striker to Arsenal – his work behind the scenes is already well under way ahead of a busy summer.
Berta signed several superstar strikers for Atletico in the past and he’ll now be faced with that exact remit in north London.
Arsenal are desperate to land a number nine this summer, and perhaps their new sporting director can identify a plausible alternative to Alexander Isak, should Newcastle United refuse their approach.
Arsenal chose Andrea Berta over Jason Ayto for two clear reasons
That being said, The Athletic have now shared an insight into Berta’s appointment, explaining why he was chosen over interim sporting director Jason Ayto.
After Edu Gaspar’s sudden departure, Ayto was leading things at the club and oversaw the men’s January transfer window as well as appointing a new women’s head coach.
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However, those responsibilities will now fall on Berta’s doorstep in the future, an experienced head who worked with Diego Simeone for several years – a manager famed for his fiery demeanour at the Wanda Metropolitano.
In terms of why Arsenal chose Berta over Ayto – who prevailed as their final two candidates, the Gunners opted for the Italian’s experience and profile.
Ayto was seriously considered by the club and Arsenal’s ownership – someone they don’t want to lose as part of their internal set-up.
However, Berta’s strong standing in Europe was seen as a big positive for Arsenal who are set for a big summer of spending.
Mikel Arteta’s role in picking Andrea Berta
Of course, a lot of Arsenal fans will also be wondering what role Mikel Arteta played in choosing Berta.
And according to the same report, Arteta gave his vote in favour of Berta as opposed to any other candidates, a nod that meant a lot in terms of Arsenal’s final decision.
Interestingly, the links between Arsenal and Atletico don’t stop at Berta this summer.
Atletico want to sign an Arsenal player who’s out on loan according to reports, someone the Gunners will probably be keen to cash-in on.
And alongside those links, Arsenal might even target an Atletico midfielder themselves – it’s guaranteed to be a busy summer.
