Arsenal to bid farewell to Per Mertesacker ahead of Fulham clash

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Since ending his playing career, Mertesacker has been a well-respected figure behind the scenes at Arsenal, taking his responsibilities as academy manager very seriously.

Arsenal have promoted some top talents to the first team during Mertesacker’s time in charge of the academy, which has been great to see. But he’s also always keen to stress that Arsenal should be helping to develop their youngsters as people, not just as players.

After 15 years at the club, it’s perhaps no surprise the 41-year-old wants a change of scenery now, and he’s certainly earned a warm reception from the Arsenal fans.

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The change has also arguably come at a good time, with the Arsenal u18s, u19s, and u21s coming off the back of a particularly bad season.

For all Mertesacker’s good work with individuals, in terms of promotions and contract extensions, the club could use some fresh ideas at the top right now.

So it’s the right time to say a fond farewell to a man who has given so much of his career to the club, and Arsenal fans will have that opportunity on Saturday afternoon.