Andrea Berta Takes Charge at Arsenal: Key Challenges for the New Sporting Director

A New Era Begins in North London

Arsenal have officially appointed Andrea Berta as their new sporting director, marking a significant shift in the club’s long-term project under Mikel Arteta. The Italian, who spent over a decade shaping Atletico Madrid’s success, replaces Edu Gaspar, who surprisingly departed last November.

Berta’s arrival comes at a crucial time, with Arsenal poised for another Premier League title challenge and an important summer transfer window ahead. His ability to work closely with Arteta while making bold recruitment decisions will be key to Arsenal’s future.

Here are the four major tasks awaiting him as he steps into his new role.

1. Securing Key Contract Renewals

One of Berta’s first priorities will be tying down Arsenal’s core players to long-term deals. While Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Magalhães, and William Saliba are all contracted until 2027, Arsenal cannot afford to be complacent.

• Saliba’s defensive brilliance has drawn interest from Real Madrid, making his future a talking point.
• Gabriel, a rock in Arteta’s backline, has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia.
• Saka, despite strong ties to the club, could become a target for Europe’s elite.

Berta must act decisively to prevent uncertainty and ensure Arsenal retain their strongest assets. Liverpool’s contract issues—with Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold all facing uncertain futures—serve as a cautionary tale for the Gunners.

2. Finding a Superstar Striker

If Arsenal want to compete with the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool, they must address their long-standing issue: a lack of a world-class striker.

While Kai Havertz has adapted well in attack, he lacks the consistency and explosiveness needed for a title-winning No.9. Arsenal’s attacking struggles have been evident this season, especially against deep defensive lines.

Potential targets include:

• Alexander Isak (Newcastle United) – A prolific finisher with pace and technical ability.
• Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig) – A raw but promising talent with immense potential.
• Viktor Gyokeres (Sporting CP) – A physically dominant forward with excellent link-up play.

Breaking the bank for Isak may be necessary if Arsenal want to transform from contenders into champions.

3. Revamping the Midfield

With Thomas Partey and Jorginho likely leaving when their contracts expire, Arsenal must refresh their midfield to maintain dominance.

The club have already been working on a deal for Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad), a player who combines the defensive solidity of Partey with Jorginho’s passing ability. However, Madrid’s interest in the Spaniard could complicate negotiations.

Beyond Zubimendi, Arsenal need another versatile midfielder—one who can contribute both defensively and in attack. Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle United) is one such player, and Arsenal’s potential pursuit of Isak could lead to discussions for the Brazilian as well.

Despite past signings like Declan Rice and Fabio Vieira, Arsenal have yet to properly replace Granit Xhaka, leaving a crucial gap in Arteta’s system.

4. Balancing Power with Arteta in Recruitment

Berta’s success will largely depend on his working relationship with Arteta. The Spanish manager has played a central role in Arsenal’s recruitment, but some of his recent decisions—such as hesitancy in signing a top striker—have drawn criticism.

While Arteta’s influence has helped shape a disciplined and competitive team, Berta’s experience working with Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid proves he is capable of challenging a strong-willed manager. His ability to push back and bring alternative perspectives could be vital in making the right calls in the transfer market.

Arsenal must find a balance where Arteta identifies key targets, but Berta ensures financial and strategic discipline in their pursuit.

Can Arsenal’s New Sporting Director Deliver?

Andrea Berta steps into a pivotal role at a club on the brink of Premier League glory. If he can lock down key contracts, secure an elite striker, reinforce the midfield, and maintain a strong relationship with Arteta, Arsenal could finally return to the summit of English football.

What do you think? Which area should Berta focus on first to take Arsenal to the next level?