Arsene Wenger believes up and coming players at Arsenal will have extra inspiration to progress to the first team due to the influence of soon-to-be Academy manager Per Mertesacker.
“Per is an exceptional character who is a great example for young players," Wenger told arsenal.com of the defender who will start his new role at the end of the season, seven years after joining the club.
"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.”