In summer
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After eight years, Per Mertesacker will step down as head of the youth academy at Arsenal. The Gunners confirmed this. The 41-year-old will continue to hold the position until the summer and thus fulfill his contract. This marks the end of a long time with the North Londoners for the former central defender. He came to the Premier League club as a player in 2011, where he ended his active career in 2018. He then took over his current position and was also assistant coach for the professionals for a short time in 2019.
“Arsenal is and remains a very special club for me, so this was a difficult decision,” said Mertesacker, who also works as a TV pundit. “I am very grateful for the trust the club has placed in me as I moved straight from professional player to head of the academy. Now it is time for me to explore something new and develop even further. I will remain focused on ending the season successfully, supporting and developing our young talent and supporting a smooth transition until my final day at the club.”
Arsenal praised the Hanover native and his continued focus on “better people make better players” in a club statement. Chairman of the board Richard Garlick also said: “We support Per’s decision to pursue something new, but we will be incredibly sad to see him leave us at the end of the season. We were fortunate to be able to retain Per as academy director after his playing career with us ended in 2018. He understands what Arsenal stands for and this has shown in his leadership – he has inspired our academy coaches, staff and young players in the Arsenal way, giving so many the opportunity to develop and shine.”