Introduction

Arsenal Academy Manager Per Mertesacker speaks to UK Coaching’s Tom Hartley about what influenced his coaching as he moved away from the pitch and on to the coaching staff. After a playing career at the highest level of the sport, the ex-Arsenal and Germany captain had plenty of people and experiences to influence his coaching style and philosophy. So how did he go about prioritising them, while looking to carve out his own path? Per discusses what kind of players – and people – he wants to help shape at Arsenal, and how the environment at the academy plays a crucial role in the success of that. He also shares his belief in the importance of learning and reflecting as a coach, while being authentic and understanding yourself.

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