Jack Wilshere, the former Arsenal midfielder, has made a surprising transition from playing career to management, joining League One side Luton as their new manager. The 33-year-old has signed a three-year deal, marking a full-circle moment in his career, as he returns to the club where he started as an eight-year-old.
Wilshere's playing career was plagued by injuries, which forced him to retire at the age of 30. During his time at Arsenal, he made 197 appearances and won two FA Cup trophies, as well as earning 34 international caps. After leaving Arsenal in 2018, he had stints at Bournemouth, West Ham, and AGF Aarhus before hanging up his boots.
Wilshere's move into coaching began when he was invited to train with Luton in 2021, and he has since taken advice from current Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta. "About a year ago, I asked Mikel when he knew he was ready," Wilshere said. "He laughed and said 'you just have to jump in and swim as hard as you can'."
Wilshere's appointment has been met with excitement, and Luton believe he can bring some magic to the club, which has experienced successive relegations. The Hatters are currently 11th in the third tier, five points adrift of the play-offs. With the help of assistant Chris Powell, a former Charlton manager, Wilshere is eager to make a mark in his first role.
Wilshere's journey to management has been swift, having taken his first role with Arsenal Under-18s in 2022 and later becoming the first-team coach at Norwich. He becomes the third-youngest manager in the top four divisions, and he is hungry to achieve great things in his new role.
Comments (0)
Leave a Comment
Be the first to comment on this article!