Farewell to London
Ex-96 star Per Mertesacker is looking for a new job
01/12/2026 – 3:17 p.mReading time: 1 min.
Per Mertesacker is leaving Arsenal after 15 years. The 2014 world champion is looking for a new job and has thought carefully about his departure.
Per Mertesacker has announced his departure as head of Arsenal’s youth academy at the end of the season. The Premier League club confirmed the former player’s decision Hannover 96 on Monday.
The 41-year-old 2014 world champion has been in charge of the Gunners’ youth department since 2018. After eight years in this position, Mertesacker is now looking for a new professional challenge. It is not yet known where he will go in the future.
“Arsenal is and remains a very special club for me, so it was a difficult decision,” said Mertesacker. He added: “Now it’s time to take on new challenges and develop myself further.”
The ex-national player took over the management of the academy immediately after retiring; he had previously played for Arsenal FC since 2011. He emphasized that he would remain “fully focused” until his last day at work.
Club boss Richard Garlick praised Mertesacker’s work. “We support Per’s decision to try something new, but we will be very sad if he leaves us at the end of the season,” said Garlick.