Former Arsenal star confirms retirement, aged 30 as Arsenal coaching role beckons

Arsenal’s former midfield star Jack Wilshere has announced his retirement from professional football, aged just 30.

The English midfielder shot to stardom aged just 18 years-old when he excelled against Barcelona’s legendary midfield of Andres Iniesta, Xavi and Sergio Busquets, leading to Pep Guardiola dubbing him a ‘special talent’.

And while he was just that, injuries left him crippled on a regular basis, meaning that he was never ever able to truly fulfil the potential that he always threatened.

In total, he managed 197 appearances for his boyhood club before moves to West Ham and Bournemouth, the latter of which saw him drop down to the Championship.

In January, he joined Scandanavian club Aarhus BF, but despite 14 appearances that move did not continue beyond this summer, leaving Wilshere without a club once more.

And, the 30-year-old has called time on his career rather than continue to look for a new club, leaving fans all wondering what could have been had he managed to remain fit.

Wilshere pens heartfelt message

The former Arsenal man took to social media to pen a heartfelt message to his fans upon announcing his decision, revealing that ‘I have live my dream’ despite calling time somewhat early for a modern footballer.

‘Today I am announcing my retirement from playing professional football”, he wrote.

It’s been an unbelievable journey filled with so many incredible moments and I feel privileged to have experienced all that I did during my career”

“To the best supporters in the world, all of you Arsenal fans, thank you from the bottom of my heart. To play for you all has been a privilege”, he added.

I’ve lived my dream. Thank you all ❤️ pic.twitter.com/rB5gnyyUlK

— Jack Wilshere (@JackWilshere) July 8, 2022

Jack’s back, sort of

However, Arsenal fans will get to see Wilshere back in Arsenal colours soon enough, with the Englishman having accepted a role as head coach of the U18’s side, according to The Athletic.

🚨 Exc: Jack Wilshere set to return to Arsenal as U-18 head coach.

30 yr old on verge of formal return to #AFC.

Mehmet Ali to be promoted & lead U23s, assistant roles for former Gunners Adam Birchall & Julian Gray.

w/ @David_Ornstein for @TheAthleticUKhttps://t.co/SpIRAMmPUi

— gunnerblog (@gunnerblog) July 8, 2022

While it may not be the same as seeing him grace the pitch, his new role will allow him to uncover the next generation of Arsenal stars.

Read more:

Gabriel Jesus reveals what convinced him to join Arsenal

Friday’s transfer rumours: Brobbery, Osimhen, Gallagher, De Jong & more