Arsenal have announced that Per Mertesacker will become the club’s academy manager in a year’s time.
The 32-year-old’s current contract for the Gunners expires in 12 months and the club are keen to keep the experience German on the books in a coaching capacity.
“We are delighted to announce that club captain Per Mertesacker will become our academy manager in a year’s time,” a statement read on the club’s official website.
“For the coming season, he will continue as an important part of our squad while developing his knowledge and understanding of the Academy.”
On the announcement, manager Arsene Wenger said: “Per is an exceptional character who is a great example for young players.
“He is a deep thinker about the game and committed to helping players fulfil their potential. He will be an inspirational figure for everyone connected with the academy.”
Mertesacker meanwhile added: “This is the start of an exciting new chapter for me and I am delighted that I will be able to stay part of the Arsenal family.
“This season I will remain fully focused on my job with the team and am looking forward to a successful last season on the pitch. After that, I look forward to the exciting challenge of helping produce young players good enough to play for the Arsenal first team.”
Mertesacker made just one competitive start for Arsenal last season, that coming in their FA Cup final 2-1 win over Chelsea in May.
