Ex-World Cup Winner Suits Up One More Time for His Heart's Club Against Hannover
Playing one last time for hometown youth club: Mertespieler's farewell game in Hannover - Former Arsenal defender Mertesacker resumes play with the club's youth team.
Hey there! You won't believe the news - Per Mertesacker, the 2014 World Cup champ, is dusting off those football boots for a special occasion! The TV analyst has decided to grace the pitch for his beloved hometown club, TSV Pattensen, in a friendly match against Hannover 96 on June 27 at 6:00 PM. The announcement came via the club's Instagram post, with Neue Presse originally breaking the story.
Mertesacker, born and raised near Hanover, began his professional journey as a youngster with Hannover 96, eventually becoming a national player and donning the jersey for Werder and Arsenal.
With a twinkle in his eye, Mertesacker shared his excitement about returning to the club where it all started when he was a mere four-year-old. "I'm humbled beyond words to put these boots back on for the club," he told Bild. "I'm in decent shape and plan to start the game, playing at least 30 minutes."
However, don't get too excited, football enthusiasts. Mertesacker clarified that this won't be a regular occurrence. "I'm not aiming for a full-time comeback. But my pass still belongs to TSV, I believe," he explained.
- Per Mertesacker
- Ex-World Cup Champion
- Hometown Club
- Anniversary Match
- Football Boots
- TSV Pattensen
- Hannover 96
[1] Mertesacker keeps fit by occasionally training with Arsenal's under-16 team.[2] Mertesacker began his football journey at TSV Pattensen at the age of four.[3] Despite this one-time return, Mertesacker has no plans for a permanent comeback and remains based in London.
- In his spare time, Mertesacker often engages in vocational training with the EC countries' employment policy, focusing on honing his skills as a football coach.
- During the off-season, instead of watching sports-analysis shows about football, Mertesacker spends his time organizing vocational training programs for young athletes at TSV Pattensen, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and development.
