Andrea Berta points to key Arsenal progress in first words as sporting director | OneFootball

Berta’s arrival ends Arsenal’s search for a permanent replacement for Edu

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Andrea Berta spoke of his admiration at Arsenal’s progress in recent seasons as he was confirmed as the club’s new sporting director.

The Italian is a permanent replacement for Edu, who stepped down from his role in November, and he brings plenty of experience, having spent 12 years at Atletico Madrid.

Berta will now start work in north London and could be in attendance for Arsenal’s Premier League match against Fulham on Tuesday.

“I am thrilled to be joining Arsenal in what is a hugely exciting period for the club,” Berta said.

“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.

Berta did not have a playing career, starting out as a banker before moving into football with lower-league Italian side Carpenedolo and then moving on to roles at Parma and Genoa.

He joined Atletico Madrid’s scouting department in 2013 and was promoted to sporting director in 2017, remaining at the club until the start of this year.

Berta helped bring the likes of Rodri, Antoine Griezmann and Jan Oblak to Atletico, with Diego Simeone’s side twice winning La Liga during his time in Spain.