Of Atletico Madrid’s two Spanish league title’s this century, one man has been at the forefront of it all. Diego Simeone. You can’t miss him.
Behind the scenes there are plenty at play, weaving their magic to keep Madrid in competition with two of the world’s biggest teams. Someone now of immediate interest to Arsenal is a lesser known figure: Andrea Berta.
From scout to sporting director across 14 years, the Italian – who has previously been at Parma and Genoa – is one of those who has helped to form some of Madrid’s best squads. Building on a foundation of defensive solidity, togetherness, discipline, and hard work, Berta and Simeone have had great success.
Since becoming technical director in 2013, Madrid have reached two Champions League finals, won La Liga twice, lifted the UEFA Super Cup and Europa League, also claiming the Spanish Super Cup. They have consistently fought with the best and richest, making a two-team league a genuine three-horse race at times.
Berta’s departure from the Metropolitano was announced last month but he leaves with Madrid right in the mix to be crowned champions again. Since his arrival they have only ever fallen out of the top three once and never below fourth. Compare that to just one top three finish before he was promoted to sporting director.
He has now been linked heavily with the vacant role left by Edu Gaspar at Arsenal. Since the surprise exit earlier this season a process has been continued to ensure Arsenal fill it well.
Jadon Ayto stepped up to manage the January transfer window but no final decision has yet been made, football.london understands. Tomas Rosicky is not a leading candidate as has been reported previously, whilst Real Sociedad chief Roberto Olabe talks have quietened.
Ayto remains under consideration. Luis Campos is appreciated across the European scene. Chelsea are not set to appoint him in a role at the head of BlueCo’s recruitment, football.london has also been told.
