Per Mertesacker agrees to become DFB Sporting Chief

Per Mertesacker has agreed to become the German FA’s new managing director for sport from January 2027.

Per Mertesacker has reached an agreement to become the German Football Association’s (DFB) new Geschäftsführer Sport, with the former Germany and Arsenal defender set to succeed Andreas Rettig from January 2027.

According to Florian Plettenberg, Mertesacker is expected to sign his contract today, with the agreement running through to the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The DFB is also expected to officially confirm his appointment later on Thursday.

Mertesacker will take over the sporting leadership role following Rettig’s departure, marking a significant change within the federation’s football structure.

Unlike Jürgen Klopp, however, Mertesacker is not expected to attend today’s presentation in Frankfurt, despite his appointment being imminent.