Arsenal are actively searching for a new sporting director following Edu Gaspar’s resignation in November. Jason Ayto, who has been serving in the role on an interim basis, is a strong candidate for a permanent promotion after spending a decade at the club. However, Arsenal are also considering external options, as reported by The Athletic.
Former Manchester United sporting director Dan Ashworth has been linked with the Gunners since Gaspar’s departure. His extensive experience in football operations makes him a leading contender, though the past year has been turbulent for him. After a drawn-out negotiation with Newcastle, Ashworth joined Manchester United in July 2024 under Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s leadership. However, his tenure was short-lived, lasting just five months before his departure.
Andrea Berta has also emerged as a potential candidate, with reports indicating that he has been in London studying English—possibly in preparation for a Premier League role. The Italian sporting director left Atlético Madrid last month after a highly successful 12-year tenure, during which he oversaw key transfers such as Antoine Griezmann’s departure and return, Rodri’s move to Manchester City, and Jan Oblak’s signing.
Another name in contention is Real Sociedad’s Roberto Olabe, who is set to step down from his position this summer. The 57-year-old has strong ties with Arsenal, as the club has frequently scouted Sociedad players in recent years. Arsenal previously signed Mikel Merino from the Basque side and have held talks regarding Kieran Tierney, Martin Zubimendi, and Nacho Monreal.
The final candidate under consideration is Monaco CEO Thiago Scuro. The Brazilian executive could bring valuable business opportunities to Arsenal, given his experience in the Principality club’s leadership. His philosophy of promoting academy talent aligns with Arsenal’s commitment to youth development, as seen with the emergence of players like Hector Bellerín, Serge Gnabry, Alex Iwobi, Joe Willock, Emile Smith Rowe, Bukayo Saka, and Ethan Nwaneri.
With multiple high-profile candidates in the mix, Arsenal are carefully weighing their options as they seek the right sporting director to lead the club’s football operations into the future.
