Per Mertesacker to become Arsenal academy manager next season as Arsene Wenger hails German as an 'exceptional character'

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Per Mertesacker is to take the reins at Arsenal's academy from next season. 

The German central defender will continue as part of Arsene Wenger's squad during the upcoming campaign but plans to increase his knowledge and understanding of his future role in concurrence with playing before retirement. 

Wenger was full of praise for 32-year-old Mertesacker who he believes is a perfect fit for the job. 

Per Mertesacker is to take over as manager of Arsenal's academy from next season

The Frenchman told the club website: '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 concluded. 

The veteran German defender said he was looking forward to his new role 

The man himself is excited by the challenge ahead as he looks to nurture the next generation of talent at the Emirates. 

'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,' he said.

'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 will play the upcoming campaign as part of Arsene Wenger's first team squad

The defender added in a statement on Instagram: 'Dear fans and friends, clear decisions were always very important to me. I felt like that after World Cup 2014 and I take such a decision now again. From autumn 2018 onwards I will be heading up the Arsenal Academy as the “Head of Academy”. Which means at the same time that the upcoming season will be my last one as a player.

'I am delighted about this future challenge and job at the club who means so much to me. Pattensen, Hannover, Bremen, Arsenal London – these places and clubs formed me and made me the player and person I am today. It is important to me to pass on these experiences and values to young players in the future.

'But for the next months my clear focus is to give everything as a player for the club. I am looking forward to the things lying ahead of us, short- mid- and longterm.'