Arsene Wenger says Per Mertesacker was approached about becoming the head of Arsenal’s Academy because of the focus, commitment and amazing leadership skills he’s demonstrated since moving to the Emirates in 2011.
The former Germany international will take over from interim manager Luke Hobbs at the end of next season and is being tipped by his current boss to help shape the future of the club both on and off the pitch.
Speaking to Arsenal Player about the unexpected appointment, Wenger revealed that the World Cup winner took some time to digest the opportunity before accepting the challenge.
“I feel first of all he represents the values that are important for me at youth level – integrity, commitment, giving the best and getting the best out of people, being a leader, having potential to guide people,” said Wenger.
“Basically that’s it. As long as you’re a player who is fully committed and focused on your career, you don’t think too much about if you’re capable to do that or not.
“When we raised the question, he thought about it and naturally the process integrated slowly into his brain. The decision in the end that was not obvious at all at the start for him, became very obvious.
“I’m happy because I believe that he can guide the future generations of Arsenal Football Club to successful careers.
“When you have a reputation, when you’re admired, you have two ways to behave. To take advantage of it and take privileges, or you’re conscious of the responsibility you have and you want to be a model that other people take example from.
“He chooses the right way and has always done that. There’s talent in your career and what you make of it. The respect you gain for people is more from what they make of their talent, and on that front Per has done extremely well.
“It is absolutely vital, because a club is about values and values are carried by human beings and people who in this case have had great careers.
“On that front you have no doubts at all about Per’s potential to get [the best out of] young players.”
Huge fan of the BFG. To me a very underrated player throughout his years playing. Sure he is slow, but reads the game so well and is so composed. His mental speed makes up for much of the lack of physical speed. Great leader, great attitude and is a guy you have to root for.
well said. Also, pretty sure Wenger tried to buy him 1 or 2 times in earlier seasons before finally getting him.
What a magic! as Germans are known to say 🙂
He’s definitely got stature, no question.
Let’s hope he hits the heights.
It’s a tall task ahead of him, but I’ve no doubt he’s going to rise to the occasion.
Great choice, everyone looks up to him.
High praise indeed, and thoroughly deserved. Always been professional and has the right temperament to give back to the club once his playing career has finished. Take note Tony Adams and Sol Campbell.
what exactly is the point in smuggling such a bitchy comment on the end?
Apologies if you find it bitchy, it wasn’t intended that way. It goes hand in hand with praising Mertesackers professionalism so the whole comment is relevant I think. I would have loved to have seen Adams in a coaching role at the club, but I don’t think he has the temperament. And to be fair until Wenger come along he certainly didn’t have the professionalism. I know he had his demons as I saw him in my local pub enough times. I wish him all the best. To answer your question I was just giving my opinion, if you are… Read more »
“When you have a reputation, when you’re admired, you have two ways to behave. To take advantage of it and take privileges, or you’re conscious of the responsibility you have and you want to be a model that other people take example from.” – wow was that a dig at Tony adams?
It was just the truth. A lesson to us all
more at thierry henry i guessed caused he proposed the job to henry
To me it just sounds like normal Wenger. I don’t know that Adams can be accused of taking advantage of his fame. He just thinks he’s more qualified than he probably is
The thing about Per is he just oozes class. He has mettle. If I go further it will be bromance.
Might he rise through the ranks?
Inspired watching him in the tankings by the chavs pool and city. Real leader really stood up then
Just an aw yes man
Tell us more since you hang around at the training grounds. What is Alexis thinking? How about ox?
Aw a dictator who wont change. Same season again coming. Same faults everyone elses fault
Very insightful stuff.
Pat Rice, muted Steve Bould, Robert “Yes man” Pires but yet, no Vieira, no Henry, No Adams, no Ian Wright, all REAL Arsenal legends with skills, legacy AND character. And i’m supposed to be head over heels about Mertersacker? No chance. Next thing you know, Wenger will bring back Arteta and appoint Theo Walcott on his coaching staff.
Imagine calling Lehmann a yes man. He might murder you for even suggesting that.
Wenger rolling out his philosophy again. For my money, worth every penny of his salary. Love it when he has more to say than what the media lead him to normally
Wenger picked the guy who looks like him physically.
Time to get Maury to arrange a paternity test.