Per Mertesacker visits Za’atari refugee camp as Arsenal launch major new coaching scheme

Per Mertesacker travelled to Jordan last month as Arsenal launched a major new coaching scheme for youngsters in the Za’atari refugee camp.

Coaches from the club, working alongside Save the Children, have created what Arsenal term a “groundbreaking” programme that uses sport to improve the mental wellbeing of children affected by conflict and violence.

The Gunners have also funded five football pitches in Za’atari and have built a further seven in the slums of Indonesian capital Jakarta.

“When children suffer – we all lose,” former Arsenal captain and new academy chief Mertesacker said. “People here have fled their country and I have no experience of that, so I talked to them and learnt a lot. It was a privilege for me to visit.

“The young people I met focus on what is happening now and this project will give them courage to cope with the struggles they face day to day, as well as providing them with the skills to have a better future.”

In the video which you can watch above Mertesacker meets 15-year-old Mohammed, who has spent the last six years in the refugee camp after fleeing from Syria.

“I love playing football, I forget everything when I’m on the pitch,” the youngster said. "Meeting Per has been a dream. Football teaches me respect and I’m excited to learn more skills from the coaches.”

Working alongside the Arsenal Foundation’s charity partner Save the Children the club have designed a programme which goes beyond simply offering football skills, teaching youngsters in Jordan and Indonesia how to deal with emotions, make well-considered decisions and build their self-esteem.

The proceeds from the Arsenal Legends vs Real Madrid Legends fixture taking place at Emirates Stadium on Saturday will fund the club’s ‘Coaching for Life’ programme.