Mertesacker has decided to step down as head of Arsenal’s academy

Per Mertesacker spent many years playing for Arsenal, becoming a club legend in the process. After the end of his playing career, he took up a role within the club, but has now decided to move on.

Details: The former German international has announced that he has decided to step down from his position as head of Arsenal’s academy. He admitted that the decision was far from easy.

Quote: “Arsenal is and always will be a very special club for me, so this was a difficult decision. I am extremely grateful to the club for the trust it placed in me,” Mertesacker said.

On August 30, 2011, Mertesacker joined London side Arsenal for £10 million, signing a three-year contract. In the summer of 2018, Arsenal’s official website announced that Mertesacker had retired from playing and taken charge of the club’s academy.

Arsenal's next fixture is on Wednesday, January 14, when they take on Chelsea in the EFL Cup semi-final. The London derby kicks off at 21:00 CET.

Reminder: Arsenal have signed former Liverpool coach and throw-in specialist Thomas Gronnemark.