Per Mertesacker to lead DFB sporting management
Former Arsenal captain Per Mertesacker has been appointed as the DFB’s new Sporting Managing Director, starting in January 2027 alongside head coach Jurgen Klopp.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0 at / Author: Michael Kranewitter
German football is undergoing a major structural shift with the appointment of Per Mertesacker as the new Sporting Managing Director of the DFB. The former Arsenal captain, who has earned widespread recognition for his leadership of the Gunners' academy, will officially assume his new role in January 2027.
His arrival coincides with a new era for the national team under head coach Jurgen Klopp. Mertesacker is set to succeed Andreas Rettig, taking responsibility for overseeing all national teams and the DFB Academy. The 41-year-old expressed deep humility regarding the appointment, noting that developing the next generation of German talent remains his primary motivation.
Developing German football and especially the youth is a huge task and that is exactly my motivation. I am burning to lead German football into the future together with many great people. Per Mertesacker
Mertesacker joins at a critical juncture as the DFB looks to move past a difficult period for the national team. Following a disappointing World Cup campaign that ended in a round-of-32 exit against Paraguay, the federation is eager to restore its standing after failing to progress deep into several recent major tournaments.
The move has been welcomed by former teammates, including legendary midfielder Toni Kroos, who publicly offered his support. With 104 caps for Germany and a World Cup winner's medal to his name, Mertesacker’s extensive experience at the highest level is viewed as a vital asset for the DFB’s long-term vision.