News

Andrea Berta breaks silence after Arsenal move as Josh Kroenke explains sporting director hire

Add as preferred source on Google

Arsenal have announced the arrival of Andrea Berta as the club’s new sporting director.

After a mass of candidates and discussion, Arsenal’s hunt for a new sporting director is over.

Berta has joined Arsenal after leaving Atletico Madrid in January, bringing with him an exciting CV.

Arsenal fans are encouraged by the strikers Berta has signed in his career, with the Italian’s arrival welcomed at the Emirates.

Atletico Madrid v Manchester City - UEFA Champions League
Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

Andrea Berta breaks silence after Arsenal arrival 

There couldn’t be a better time for Berta to arrive at Arsenal, as the Gunners prepare for a crucial summer transfer window.

It’s understood that Berta will have a budget of £300m in the summer market, with all eyes on what the former Atletico man can deliver.

Firstly, the Italian will get acclimatised to his new surroundings; however, he’s already admitted that he’s more than familiar with the Arsenal way. 

“I am thrilled to be joining Arsenal in what is a hugely exciting period for the club,” Berta said via Arsenal’s official website

“I have watched with great interest the way Arsenal has evolved in recent years and I have admired the hard work that has gone in to reestablishing the club as a major force in European football with a passionate following around the world.”

The newly appointed sporting director went on to say what all fans have been waiting for, as he looked towards what he hopes will be a ‘successful future’ at the Emirates.

“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.”

What Josh Kroenke said about Berta

It’s no surprise that the Italian is looking forward to getting stuck in at Arsenal, given that Berta rejected other jobs in favour of becoming a Gunner.

The former Atletico businessman will now support Arteta on the transfer front, with Josh Kroenke gushing over Arsenal’s new hire.

“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,” Arsenal’s co-chairman said. 

“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.”

Kroenke then explained what saw Berta stick out above other candidates, lauding the new hire’s experience.

“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.”

It’s an exciting time for Arsenal and for Berta, who will be able to impress instantly in a crucial summer transfer window.