Former Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker has been appointed as the German Football Federation’s (DFB) new managing director for sport, with the World Cup winner set to begin the role on 1 January 2027.
The 41-year-old will succeed Andreas Rettig, whose contract expires at the end of this year, and will oversee Germany’s national teams as well as the DFB Academy. The appointment was unanimously approved by the DFB’s supervisory board and general meeting on Friday.
Mertesacker left Arsenal at the conclusion of the 2025-26 season after 15 years with the north London club. He spent seven years as a player before taking charge of the academy in 2018, helping to develop a new generation of talent following his retirement.
DFB president Bernd Neuendorf revealed the federation had been working to secure Mertesacker’s return for well over a year.
“Per Mertesacker is one of the outstanding figures in German football,” Neuendorf said.
“As a player, he was a key part of a highly successful national team for more than a decade before going on to lead one of Europe’s most prestigious youth academies. His expertise, clear principles and leadership qualities make him an excellent choice for the position of managing director for sport.”
Mertesacker represented Hannover 96, Werder Bremen and Arsenal during a career spanning more than two decades. He won 104 caps for Germany and played every match of their successful 2014 World Cup campaign in Brazil before retiring from international football.
His work at Arsenal’s academy also earned widespread recognition. During his eight-year spell in charge, graduates including Bukayo Saka, Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly established themselves in the first team, while several others progressed into senior football across Europe.
Speaking after the appointment was confirmed, Mertesacker said he was excited to return to the federation.
“I’m really looking forward to this new role and the responsibility that comes with it,” he said.
“German football has enormous potential. Together, we want to create an environment in which players can take responsibility, grow through challenges and fulfil their potential, from grassroots level all the way through to the national teams. It’s an honour for me to have the opportunity to help shape the DFB’s future.”
Also see – Italy Hold Talks with Pep Guardiola as FIGC Eyes High-Profile Appointment
Follow Footy Times on Social Media:
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube
Discover more from Footy Times
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.