Per Mertesacker Appointed as New DFB Business Director
Per Mertesacker will become the new Business Director of the German Football Association (DFB) in 2027. The former professional footballer from Hannover will join the leadership trio around new national coach Jürgen Klopp.
What's next?
Per Mertesacker will take over the position from Andreas Rettig, who will leave the position on January 1, 2027. The 41-year-old will receive a contract until 2030, just like Klopp. "I'm very happy about the new task and the responsibility that comes with it," said Mertesacker. The contact with the DFB was never broken even after the end of his national team career. "It's something special for me to return to this role now. German football has enormous potential." He wants to "work with humility, the will to work hard, and the necessary patience to promote the talents and personalities that make the difference".
What does it mean for the DFB?
The DFB is implementing its plan to integrate former top players into responsible positions. The defender played in Germany for Hannover 96 and Werder Bremen. At the English Premier League club FC Arsenal, he ended his career in 2018. One of the highlights of his national team career was the World Cup win in 2014 in Brazil.
What's next?
DFB President Bernd Neuendorf praised Mertesacker's "professional competence, his clear stance, and his leadership qualities." Neuendorf said that the DFB leadership and the World Champion have been in regular exchange for over a year and a half. "For us, it was always clear that if there is a position to be filled, Per is an interesting person," said Neuendorf. Mertesacker, who was supported by big names like Uli Hoeneß or Lothar Matthäus, is known as a good speaker with excellent insight into high-quality youth development. Rettig was also responsible for integrating the national team with the U-teams - Mertesacker can be the bridge builder in the cooperation with youth director Hannes Wolf.
Last result
Last result: Germany 1-1 Paraguay (2026-06-29). Recent form (last 5): 3W-1D-1L (DLWWW, most recent first). Next fixture: vs Netherlands (away, 2026-09-24).
