Arsenal appoints Pascal De Maesschalck as new academy director

Arsenal has confirmed the appointment of Pascal De Maesschalck as their new academy director, effective August 1. De Maesschalck joins from French club Strasbourg, part of Chelsea's ownership group, where he served as technical director since 2024. He succeeds Per Mertesacker, who left Arsenal after eight years in the role. Sporting director Andrea Berta expressed enthusiasm for De Maesschalck's extensive experience in youth development. The club aims to continue developing young players and attracting emerging talent.

• 2:35 PMYahoo Sports — Arsenal poach academy chief from Chelsea owners’ BlueCo network