Germany have left Arsenal duo Lukas Podolski and Per Mertesacker out of their squad for next week's friendly against Argentina.

German national coach Joachim Low told Sky Sports News: "The Premier League starts just three days after this game in Frankfurt.

"It is more important right now for Per, who was injured for a long time, and Lukas, who is fighting for his place as a newcomer, to be able to prepare for their upcoming tasks with their club."

Podolski and Mertesacker are currently in Germany preparing for Arsenal's final pre-season friendly against FC Cologne on Sunday.