Jack Wilshere joins Norwich City as first-team coach

Jack Wilshere, former Arsenal midfielder, has officially been named the first-team coach at Norwich City, the club announced on Wednesday.

The 32-year-old takes up this position following a successful period as the head coach for Arsenal’s Under-18s, where he guided the squad to the FA Youth Cup Final in his debut season.

Expressing his excitement about the new challenge, Wilshere told canaries.co.uk, “I’m delighted to be joining Norwich City.”

“It is a fantastic opportunity at a very impressive club, and one that has come at the right time to progress my coaching career within a first-team environment.”

Wilshere’s playing career saw him make 197 senior appearances for Arsenal, winning two FA Cups and becoming the club’s youngest-ever Premier League debutant at just 16.

He also had loan spells at Bolton Wanderers and AFC Bournemouth and later played for West Ham, Bournemouth again, and Danish side AGF before retiring in 2022. Internationally, Wilshere earned 34 caps for England, scoring two goals.

Norwich’s sporting director, Ben Knapper, expressed excitement about the appointment, saying: “His personality, knowledge, and experience will all be huge assets for us. Jack has developed fantastically as a coach, and we believe this is an exciting next step for both parties.”

Arsenal laud move

Similarly, Wilshere’s departure from Arsenal was announced in a statement from the Arsenal Academy, where his impact as a coach was lauded.

“Jack’s development as a coach over the past two seasons has been really impressive,” said Academy Manager Per Mertesacker.

“He has not only been a role model for our young players but has also demonstrated how to be the best possible person.”

Reflecting on his time at Arsenal, Wilshere said, “I’ve loved every minute as Under-18s head coach… Arsenal will always be part of who I am.”

He added that he is proud of the collective work done with the academy and will continue supporting from afar.

Wilshere now embarks on the next chapter of his coaching journey at Norwich City, with hopes of furthering his career in a first-team environment.

News360 Nigeria reports that on Thursday, Norwich City currently held eighth place in the Championship table, trailing leaders Sunderland by seven points.

The team will be aiming for a top-three finish to secure promotion to the Premier League in the 2025/26 football season.

Johannes Hoff Thorup was appointed Norwich City’s head coach in May 2024. Wilshere will work alongside Thorup’s backroom staff.