Arsenal Icon Turns Down Shock Comeback Offer to Join Coaching Staff
Ex-Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has reportedly turned down a chance to return to the club's coaching setup, opting instead to pursue independent opportunities.
Wilshere concluded his injury-plagued playing days in 2022 after a brief stint in Denmark, but quickly pivoted toward a coaching career. Shortly after announcing his retirement, the former England star was appointed as Arsenal's Under-18 head coach.
The 33-year-old subsequently departed his Arsenal role early last season, joining Norwich City's senior coaching team in the Championship. He even took temporary charge as caretaker manager following Johannes Thorup's dismissal in April, though he wasn't offered the permanent position this summer.
Wilshere departed when Norwich brought in Liam Manning and was reportedly considered for Arsenal's available Under-21 coaching position, replacing Mehmet Ali who moved to Brentford.
BBC Sport revealed that Arsenal contacted Wilshere to assess his interest in the role, which would have also involved input on the club's broader youth development approach. However, after evaluating the proposal, he's understood to have stepped back from consideration. Following his experience with Norwich, his attention has shifted toward securing another senior-level appointment.
There are no hard feelings between the parties, with the situation resolved "completely amicably".
Football coaching has evolved into a younger profession recently, with clubs increasingly backing what they perceive as tactical acumen and fresh ideas over extensive experience. Mikel Arteta was 37 when Arsenal appointed him as manager in 2019, having only served as an assistant previously, while Ruben Amorim was 39 when Manchester United recruited him last year.
In other Premier League examples, Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Hürzeler is merely 32. Coaching prodigy Will Still was under 30 when he secured his opportunity at Reims in France three years ago and now faces the challenge of guiding Southampton back to the Premier League.