DFB in talks with Per Mertesacker for Managing Director Sport role

The German Football Association, known as the DFB, is negotiating with former national team defender Per Mertesacker to take over as Managing Director Sport. The role is being vacated by Andreas Rettig, who confirmed on July 3 that he will not extend his contract beyond the end of 2026.

What’s happening at the DFB

Rettig’s departure comes in the aftermath of Germany’s early exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Mertesacker, 41, earned 104 caps for Germany and was part of the squad that won the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. He retired from professional football in 2018 after a long career that included significant stints at Werder Bremen and Arsenal.

Since hanging up his boots, Mertesacker has worked in media as a pundit and held youth academy roles. He has reportedly expressed interest in the DFB position, framing it as an opportunity to give back to German football at a moment when the national program clearly needs direction.

The move would be part of a broader leadership reshuffle within the DFB. Rettig worked alongside notable figures including Rudi Völler during his tenure overseeing the organization’s sporting strategy.

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