Berta predicts ‘hugely successful’ future for Arsenal after joining as sporting director | OneFootball

Arsenal have confirmed that Andrea Berta has joined the club as their new sporting director.

Berta emerged as the leading candidate for the role following the departure of Edu in November, and the Italian is expected to attend their game against Fulham on Tuesday as he begins his new role immediately.

The 53-year-old left Atletico Madrid in January after 12 years, and was heralded for being behind a string of successful Atleti signings during his tenure, which included Jan Oblak and Rodri.

Following the announcement, 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.

“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.”

Co-chairman Josh Kroenke added: “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.”

Jason Ayto, who had held the role on an interim basis since Edu’s departure, will work alongside Berta as his assistant, with one of their first tasks expected to be trying to sign a top-class centre forward.