Topics: Per Mertesacker, Arsene Wenger, Arsenal, English Premier League
The German defender will call an end to his career to enter managing.

Arsenal captain and fan favorite Per Mertesacker will call an end to his career next summer. The German center-back will play his last season of professional football in the upcoming campaign before hanging up his boots.

After retiring, the German will be handed a new role at the north London club: he will become the academy manager for the 2018/19 season, taking over from current boss Luke Hobbs.

For the upcoming campaign, the 32-year-old defender will remain a key member of the Gunners squad “while developing his knowledge and understanding of the Academy”.

“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,” Wenger told the club’s official website.

Mertesacker, who was appointed first-team captain upon Arteta’s departure, said: “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.”

The German has been at the Emirates Stadium for six years. Joining the club in 2011 on transfer deadline day, he has become an influential defender for the Gunners.

He has only eight goals under his belt, but his 209 games for Arsenal will be remembered for other things – namely his excellent performance against Chelsea in the FA Cup final.