Premier League: Arsenal’s appointment of Andrea Berta as their new sporting director is a statement of intent. With years of experience at Atletico Madrid, Berta built squads that competed at the highest level in Europe. As Arsenal looks to take the next step under Mikel Arteta, Berta’s expertise could be the missing piece to their title puzzle. Here’s why he’s the perfect fit.

Berta was a key figure in building Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid squad, making smart signings that fit the club’s playing philosophy. He brought in Antoine Griezmann for £29.4 million in 2014, a move that proved to be a masterstroke as the French forward became Atletico’s all-time top scorer. Another key signing was Jan Oblak, purchased for just €16 million, who went on to become one of the best goalkeepers in the world. Arsenal needs this level of precision in their recruitment, especially with stringent financial fair play restrictions.

Berta knows how to balance the books while keeping the squad competitive. Under his guidance, Atletico Madrid spent €828 million over a decade but also made significant profits on key players. He bought Rodri for just €20 million in 2018 and later sold him to Manchester City for £63 million, an example that shows his ability to spot undervalued talent. With Arsenal needing to strengthen multiple areas without overspending, Berta’s expertise in market navigation will be crucial.

One of Atletico Madrid’s biggest strengths under Berta was their defense. He played a major role in assembling the popular backline featuring Diego Godín, Jose Gimenez, and later Reinildo Mandava. Arsenal’s defense has improved, but depth remains an issue, especially with William Saliba’s workload increasing. If Berta can replicate his defensive scouting success, Arsenal could develop a rock-solid backline capable of winning major trophies.

Berta has a history of backing young players and turning them into global stars. Lucas Hernández developed into a €70 million defender under his watch. Arsenal’s project revolves around youth, with talents like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli thriving. With Berta’s scouting eye, the Gunners can continue finding and developing the next generation of elite players.

At Atletico, Berta made tough calls, selling big names when necessary to keep the squad fresh. He pushed the departures of club legends like Diego Costa and Gabi when the time was right, ensuring Madrid never stagnated. Arsenal, under Arteta, has shown a willingness to be ruthless, as seen with Mesut Ozil and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s exits. Berta’s ability to make the right decisions at the right time will be key in Arsenal’s evolution from title challengers to serial winners.