Per Mertesacker, the former Germany international and Arsenal defender, has been appointed as the managing director of sport at the German Football Association (DFB), effective January 1. Mertesacker, 41, brings a wealth of experience from his playing career and his previous role as academy manager at Arsenal, which he held for eight years before leaving at the end of the past season.

Mertesacker earned 104 caps for Germany and was a member of the national team when they won the 2014 FIFA World Cup. His new role at the DFB comes at a pivotal time, as German football looks to rebuild following disappointing performances in recent major tournaments. Germany has not advanced beyond the round of 16 in the last three World Cups, prompting calls for structural and developmental reforms within the national framework.

His appointment coincides with the hiring of Jurgen Klopp as head coach of the national team, as announced the day before. The DFB’s leadership appears focused on revitalizing Germany’s football program by combining experienced management with fresh coaching perspectives.

In a statement, Mertesacker emphasized the long-term approach needed to develop football talent in Germany. He said the country possesses significant potential and that success requires humility, dedication, and patience. “We want to foster the talents who make the difference,” he noted.

Mertesacker’s expertise in youth development and his understanding of both German and English football systems are expected to contribute to the DFB’s efforts to restore Germany’s standing on the international stage. His role will involve overseeing sporting operations and supporting the national team’s competitive objectives moving forward.