Per Mertesacker has revealed why Arsene Wenger didn’t need to convince him to join Arsenal back in 2011.

The defender spoke to Arsenal Player recently about how the boss spoke German to him, which impressed the international, but he didn’t need persuading. Mertesacker already knew that Arsenal was the next step in his career and he could hardly wait to move to north London.

“He talked to me in German so that was very impressive to me,” the 32-year-old said.

“First of all to talk to him, even five years ago, [was special] – such an experienced manager and someone you look up to.

“He didn’t need to impress me or convince me a lot or persuade me to join Arsenal, I was agreeing with him that this was the next step for me and the right step for me. My first impression was pretty good and it will stick with me for the rest of my life.”

Since then, Per has been given the captain’s armband after Mikel Arteta left to become a member of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City coaching staff.

Although he’s injured now, he’s made 207 appearances for the Gunners since signing five years ago.

I feel as if his time at the club is limited. However, he’s always been one of my favourite players, just because he was a fan when he was a kid, he’s a fan today and I’m sure he’ll continue to be a fan when he finally leaves.

He has a lot of heart that guy. A lot of love for Arsenal. And I mark him up for that.