Arsenal’s sporting director must fix transfer oversights after January failure | OneFootball

Arsenal’s next sporting director appointment will be as crucial as their next signings. It will define the club’s trajectory under Mikel Arteta, shaping transfer strategy, squad depth and long-term planning.

After consecutive second-place finishes, Arsenal are in danger of repeating the same cycle due to their failure to strengthen in the January window.

The club had the Premier League title within reach, but their lack of attacking reinforcements proved costly once Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz got injured. A new sporting director must prevent this kind of oversight from happening again.

According to a report by David Ornstein, Arsenal plan to make an appointment in March. Since Edu Gaspar resigned in November, the club has been operating with Jason Ayto as interim sporting director, and they are now in the final stages of selecting a permanent successor.

Arsenal’s ownership, Kroenke Sports & Entertainment, is heavily involved in the process. No offer has been made yet, and while high-profile names like Paris Saint-Germain’s Luis Campos have been linked, he is not in the frame.

Edu played a key role in Arsenal’s current project, overseeing Arteta’s appointment and squad rebuild. His successor must now take the team to the next level, ensuring squad depth and smart investments to challenge for major honours consistently.

Among the candidates, Dan Ashworth stands out as one of England’s most experienced sporting directors. He built his reputation at Brighton & Hove Albion before moving to Newcastle United and later joining Manchester United, albeit briefly.

Ashworth’s ability to structure a club’s long-term vision could be invaluable, but after his exit from United, he may be cautious about his next move.

Jason Ayto, Arsenal’s interim sporting director, has worked closely with Arteta and understands the club’s internal workings. He played a key role in recent transfers, including the pursuit of Martin Zubimendi. His familiarity with Arsenal’s setup could make him a logical choice.

Andrea Berta, formerly of Atletico Madrid, has the experience of competing at the top level in Europe. His track record of balancing high-profile sales with strong recruitment could suit Arsenal’s ambitions.

Roberto Olabe, who helped transform Real Sociedad into a competitive force, has been linked as well. His knowledge of La Liga talents, including past dealings with Arsenal, makes him a viable option.

Thiago Scuro, Monaco’s CEO, offers a modern approach to recruitment, focusing on developing young players while maintaining competitiveness. His experience with multi-club models could align with Arsenal’s long-term vision.

Tomas Rosicky has also emerged as a candidate. The former Arsenal midfielder, who now serves as Sparta Prague’s sporting director, has confirmed he is aware of Arsenal’s interest. He has not received an official offer but admits he is honoured to be considered.

Rosicky’s deep connection with the club could make him a popular appointment, though he has yet to indicate whether he would be open to leaving his current role.

Whoever takes the job must ensure Arsenal do not fall short again. The club cannot afford another miscalculated transfer window while chasing a title.