Arsenal Football Club has recently appointed Andrea Berta as their new sporting director, succeeding Edu Gaspar. Berta, renowned for his tenure at Atlético Madrid, was pivotal in shaping the Spanish club’s transfer strategies and overall success. His track record at Atlético offers a blend of remarkable achievements and notable disappointments, providing a nuanced perspective for Arsenal supporters.
Notable Signings Under Andrea Berta at Atlético Madrid
João Félix
In 2019, Atlético secured João Félix from Benfica for a club-record €127 million. Despite high expectations, Félix struggled to consistently deliver, leading to loan spells at Chelsea and Barcelona. As of now, he is on loan at AC Milan from Chelsea, with performances that have yet to justify his hefty price tag.
Julián Álvarez
Acquired from Manchester City for €75 million in the summer of 2024, Álvarez has been a revelation, netting over 20 goals in his debut season so far. His prolific scoring underscores Berta’s ability to identify attacking talent.
Diego Costa
Costa’s return to Atlético in 2018 for €60 million was met with enthusiasm, given his previous success at the club. However, his second stint yielded 19 goals in 81 appearances, a decline from his earlier form. Despite this, he contributed to the team’s 2018 UEFA Super Cup victory.
Álvaro Morata
Signed from Chelsea for €35 million, Morata’s tenure at Atlético was marked by inconsistency. His journeyman career, spanning clubs like Real Madrid, Juventus, and AC Milan, reflects a struggle to find a long-term fit, leading to his current position in the Turkish league.
Matheus Cunha
Brought in from Hertha BSC for €26 million, Cunha failed to make a significant impact, resulting in a loan move to Wolverhampton Wanderers.
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Antoine Griezmann
Signed from Real Sociedad for €30 million in 2014, Griezmann became a cornerstone of Atlético’s attack, scoring 133 goals in his initial five-year spell. His contributions were instrumental in winning the 2018 UEFA Europa League, where he was named the tournament’s best player, and the subsequent UEFA Super Cup victory over Real Madrid. Currently the foreign players with the highest number of appearance in Laliga (521)
Luis Suárez
After departing Barcelona, Suárez joined Atlético on almost a free transfer in 2020. His 21 league goals were pivotal in clinching the 2020-2021 La Liga title, demonstrating his enduring class and making him one of Berta’s most astute acquisitions.
Memphis Depay
Signed from Barcelona for few million euros, Depay struggled to find form at Atlético, leading to limited appearances and minimal impact.
Jan Oblak
Acquired from Benfica for €16 million in 2014, Oblak has established himself as one of the world’s premier goalkeepers. He has made over 450 appearances and secured multiple titles, including the 2020-2021 La Liga championship and the 2018 UEFA Europa League. Individually, Oblak has earned the Ricardo Zamora Trophy five times, recognizing his exceptional goalkeeping performances.
Rodri
Returning to Atlético from Villarreal for €20 million in 2018, Rodri’s midfield prowess was evident during his single season before a €70 million move to Manchester City. His development under after leaving for City culminated in winning the Ballon d’Or in 2024, highlighting his world-class abilities.
David Villa
Signed from Barcelona for a nominal fee in 2013, Villa’s experience and leadership were invaluable in Atlético’s 2013-2014 La Liga triumph. His contributions extended beyond statistics, providing a winning mentality to the squad.
Among these 11 notable signings, approximately seven can be deemed successful, reflecting a commendable hit rate. Berta’s tenure at Atlético showcases his capacity to identify and secure top talent, contributing to the club’s domestic and European achievements.
While Berta’s track record includes both triumphs and setbacks, his overall impact at Atlético Madrid although didn’t yield lots of trophies, but of course suggests a positive outlook for Arsenal. His experience in assembling competitive squads and navigating the transfer market could prove invaluable as Arsenal aims to reestablish itself among Europe’s elite. However, fans should temper their expectations, recognizing that while Berta has a history of successful signings, not every acquisition yields the desired outcome. Patience and measured optimism will be key as Berta begins his tenure in North London.
