Per Mertesacker plans to inspire the next generation of prospects at Arsenal when he becomes the head of academy at the end of the season.

In an interview with Standard, Mertesacker talked about the decision to take the job as the head of Arsenal’s academy when he retires from professional football at the end of this season.

The Gunners announced earlier in the summer that this would be Per’s last year playing but that he would remain with the club afterwards. The German stated that the primary reason he wished to take the job was that he wanted to stay at Arsenal.

He talked earlier this year about the fact that he was finding it more difficult and more painful to keep training, and that he knew he wouldn’t be able to play three times a week anymore, so this seemed to be the best way for the World Cup winner to keep contributing to the Gunners.

On his choice to agree to take the role, he said: “I made a decision to finish my career here, plus getting an opportunity to work here and inspire young people. That is my path. That’s why I made this decision.”

Based on the pre-season Arsenal have now completed – aside from the Community Shield match on Sunday – the Gunners have plenty of talent for Mertesacker to work with. Reiss Nelson impressed at the Emirates Cup and the other youth players who headed out on tour all showed glimpses of what they’re capable of.

When asked about their pre-season performances, Mertesacker said: “I like to see them playing that way. It takes more than that, every single day in training they have to show that consistency. To educate them a little bit, that’s fun for me.

“They need some guidance, they’re not quite there. I’m still influencing them on the pitch, being the guy who is questioning things and not just praising. Always reminding them what it takes.”

Arsenal fans will be happy to hear that the future academy boss and current club captain knows how to find the balance between giving the players the credit they’ve earned whilst also showing them how to improve.

As for Mertesacker, he’s looking forward to getting started, but is also aware of the hurdles to overcome: “It’s exciting. It’s kind of a transition for me. But it’s going to be a huge challenge.

“I know I’ve got that background playing but I’ve got no background in leading an academy. [I know] the club has so much trust in myself. That’s why I took that job as well.”