Wenger needs to make a big decision when it comes to choosing Arsenal’s captain. If rumors are true, Mertesacker might be leaving soon meaning that the arm-band will again be reassigned to the Gunners’ backup leader. Unfortunately, since Tony Adams, no other player stayed captain for more than three seasons. Aside from Vieira and Fabregas, Wenger had to handle looker room leadership every other year or so. Even if nothing is settled yet and no actual confirmation that Mertesacker is leaving has been provided, there is a big chance the World Cup winner will part ways with Arsenal in the next couple of months. His contract is set to expire in the summer of 2017 and no negotiations were held up until now. Lately, people have been wondering if they will ever get to see the center-back perform for the Gunners, especially given the latest statements from both the player and other possible future destinations.

“I am person who likes to create options for himself. Of course, I ask myself what would make sense if things were to end at Arsenal.  Where can I be of any help? What do I want? Could I maybe return to Germany?

“I look at the perspectives for me and my family, and I think that I’ll intensify those thoughts from January on. That’s also the time when you can listen to other things [offers] when your contract is expiring.” – this is what Mertesacker had to say about his future according to ESPN

His words did not go by unnoticed and received a quick response from what looks like his future club:

“We all know Hannover means for Per, and maybe we can get him enthusiastic about Hannover 96 again,” said Hanover executive Martin Bader. The Per Mertesacker issue right now is not on top of our list. We’re a second-division side, he’s the Arsenal captain.

“A lot of things have to come together, and the first requirement would be to win promotion. It [Mertesacker return] is far away now and it sounds crazy, but a lot of things are possible in football.”

Looking closely at the way Mertesacker handled departure rumors, we can clearly see he is well aware he will not be playing for many years to come. He will probably perform for 2 more seasons especially given the nasty injury he is still recovering from. A return on the pitch in January [best case scenario] does not mean he will be fully fit. Given his physique and playing style he will pose strong competition for his Arsenal teammates starting next year when he will already be 33. On the other hand his experience is not something to come by very easily these days. There’s also the fact that Wenger clearly likes the big German and values his experience and consistency on the field.