Mertesacker celebrates comeback at TSV Pattensen's 135th birthday!
Hannover 96 wins 3-0 in the friendly against TSV Pattensen, while Per Mertesacker makes his comeback and the club's 135th anniversary is celebrated.

Mertesacker celebrates comeback at TSV Pattensen's 135th birthday!
Some very special moments that once again show us how strongly football connects people. On June 27, 2025, Hannover 96 played in a friendly against TSV Pattensen, and once again the spectators saw a remarkable show. The occasion was very special for the people of Pattensen: They celebrated their 135th birthday on the square, and with a very special guest who is no stranger to the region - Per Mertesacker. The 2014 World Cup winner celebrated his comeback for the club where he started his career. [kicker] reports that he played actively for TSV from 1988 to 1995 and has now laced up his football boots again at the age of 40.
Speaking of comeback: Mertesacker, who spent the last few years after his playing career working primarily in youth development at Arsenal, was substituted after 30 minutes to the applause of the enthusiastic spectators. This was not only an emotional moment for Mertesacker, but also a sign of appreciation for his achievements over the years.
Hannover 96 convinces with clear victories
But let's get to the sporting part of the day! Hannover 96, led by new coach Christian Titz, entered the game courageously. And the fans were already cheering in the second minute: Lars Gindorf made it 1-0 for Hannover 96 after a precise cross from Monju Momuluh. Gindorf wasn't the only one who could point things out. Momuluh himself also increased the score to 2-0 shortly before half-time (40th minute), which steered the game in a clear direction.
The second half brought some new faces into the game. Titz replaced the entire team to give the newcomers the opportunity to show their skills. A highlight of the second half was Boris Tomiak's converted hand penalty in the 73rd minute, which sealed the final score of 3-0 for Hannover 96. [Hannover96] reports that Hannover 96 played in this game with a new black and green away kit and presented themselves well, while TSV Pattensen fought bravely despite the defeat.
A friendly game with lots of emotions
Spectator numbers of around 2,000 people ensured that the atmosphere in the stadium was great. In addition to Mertesacker, other newcomers from Hannover 96, such as Jonas Sterner and Hendry Blank, also made their debut. While Benedikt Pichler was not in the squad due to stress reasons, the other newcomers celebrated their first steps in the new uniform. Christian Titz praised the performance of his players, especially how they practiced the new procedures and further strengthened the team spirit.
For Per Mertesacker it was not only a sporting comeback, but also an emotional look back at his roots. After starting his football career at TSV Pattensen, he now shows how important the bond with his first club remains to him. Memory and passion that make football a very special sport. [Wikipedia] provides exciting insights into Mertesacker's impressive career and shows how strongly football is anchored in his life.
If you're wondering what's next for Hannover 96, the next game is tomorrow against HSC Hannover. One thing is certain: the team is in form and will do everything in its power to carry the positive energy from the encounter against Pattensen!