IN CONVERSATION WITH Per Mertesacker THE SOON-TO RETIRE ARSENAL CAPTAIN AND NETJETS OWNER ON HIS LIFE AWAY FROM THE FOOTBALL PITCH 1 TRAVEL Sun-worshipper or thrillseeker? I like both and try to combine those elements when possible. The adventure and outdoor trips I usually do with a group of close friends from back in Germany. In terms of family holidays with the kids, it comes more down to the pool time. One place that impressed me a lot during an Arsenal pre-season tour was Australia, so I think I have to go back there one day with more time and fewer obligations. 2 GOURMET Top names or hidden gems? I enjoy exploring different cultures. I think the real gems are found in small, local places, especially in Asia. During my time as a footballer it has not always been easy to follow that passion, but I will do it more and more in the future. 3 ACCOMMODATION Grandes dames or private sanctuaries? Easy … private places. Having spent lots of time in hotels all over the world during my career, I seek privacy when on holiday. 4 ARTS & CULTURE Still life or live performance? Going to concerts is something I enjoy. My all-time favourite Bob Marley unfortunately died before I was born. But I adore his music. So if NetJets ever offers time travel, please take me to a Bob Marley concert. 5 ENTERTAINMENT Page-turner or screen time? Game of Thrones – again and again! But I do relax a lot reading a good book. 7 FUTURE PLANS In the office or on the pitch? The amount of office time will be significantly higher in my new role as Arsenal’s academy manager than as a player. But I will, for sure, still be pitchside and be close to the players and coaches. BARTOSZ KOSOWSKI 82 NetJets
