Mertesacker to become DFB sporting director January 2027

Per Mertesacker is set to become the German Football Association’s new managing director of sport, taking up the role at the start of 2027 and succeeding Andreas Rettig, whose contract runs through 2026. The appointment aligns with a broader DFB reshuffle that also includes Jürgen Klopp’s installation as head coach and a push to strengthen ties between the senior national team and the youth system. Mertesacker, a 2014 World Cup winner and former Arsenal academy head, brings extensive youth development experience to the position and has expressed eagerness to return German football to its full potential. His contract runs through the 2030 World Cup, signaling a long-term plan to integrate national and youth talent under Klopp’s leadership. Rettig will mentor Mertesacker during the transition, and the DFB view Mertesacker as a leading figure capable of guiding both the national team and its youth development path. Arsenal’s academy succession and Mertesacker’s TV work are noted as part of his ongoing contributions to German football as he moves into the DFB role.