Per Mertesacker, born on September 29, 1984, in Hanover, Germany, began his journey to becoming a professional soccer player at a young age. He spent seven seasons in the youth squad of Hannover 96 before making his professional debut with Hannover 96 II in 2003. It was here that he honed his skills and first caught the eye of talent scouts.
In 2004, Mertesacker made the move to Werder Bremen, where he would spend the next five seasons of his career. It was during his time with Werder Bremen that he truly began to make a name for himself in the world of soccer. His strong defensive skills and leadership on the field quickly earned him a reputation as one of the top center backs in the game.
Mertesacker made his debut for the German national team in 2004 and would go on to become a key player for the squad for the next decade. He played an instrumental role in helping Germany secure third place finishes in the 2006 and 2010 FIFA World Cups. However, it was in 2014 that Mertesacker and his teammates would achieve the ultimate success, winning the FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
In 2011, Mertesacker made the move to English club Arsenal, where he would continue to impress fans and critics alike with his defensive prowess. Despite facing stiff competition in the Premier League, Mertesacker quickly established himself as a key player for the Gunners, earning a reputation as a reliable and consistent defender.
After Germany's World Cup win in 2014, Mertesacker made the decision to retire from international play. He ended his career with the national team on a high note, cementing his legacy as one of Germany's greatest defenders. Mertesacker continued to play for Arsenal until his retirement from professional soccer in 2018, leaving behind a lasting impact on the club and the sport as a whole.
Off the field, Mertesacker is a devoted husband and father. He is married to professional handball player Ulrike Stange, with whom he shares two children. Despite the demands of his career, Mertesacker has always made time for his family, valuing their support and love above all else.
In conclusion, Per Mertesacker's career is a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and dedication. From his humble beginnings in Hanover to his success on the world stage, Mertesacker has proven himself to be a true legend of the game.
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