Jack Wilshere is believed to have signed a three-year deal as Luton manager

Jack Wilshere Begins Managerial Career at Luton Aged 33

From Arsenal Prodigy to Luton Boss – Jack Wilshere’s Remarkable Journey

Jack Wilshere, once one of English football’s brightest young stars, has officially begun his managerial career with League One side Luton Town at just 33 years old — completing a full-circle return to the club where he first kicked a ball aged eight.

The former Arsenal and England midfielder, whose playing days were cut short by chronic injuries, now steps into his first senior managerial role with a clear vision and hunger to succeed.

“This is a new Jack Wilshere, a different Jack Wilshere, who is hungry to achieve great things,”

— Wilshere said at his unveiling press conference.

Full-Circle Moment for Wilshere

Wilshere began his youth career at Luton Town before joining Arsenal at age nine. He went on to debut for the Gunners at just 16 years and 256 days in 2008 and became a central figure in the 2010-11 season.

However, persistent injuries hampered his progress. He missed over 150 games during his Arsenal career, spending more than 1,000 days sidelined due to ankle issues.

Despite this, Wilshere managed 197 appearances, winning two FA Cups and earning 34 England caps before retiring from professional football in 2022 at age 30.

Inspired by Arteta, Shaped by Experience

Wilshere has taken advice from his former teammate and current Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, who told him:

“You just have to jump in and swim as hard as you can.”

Before his Luton appointment, Wilshere coached Arsenal’s U18s, then joined Norwich as a first-team coach, even stepping in as caretaker manager for the final two Championship games of last season.

His journey has been shaped by mentors like Arsène Wenger and Arteta, but Wilshere is keen to forge his own managerial identity:

“You are who you are as a coach and that’s important.

But I like the ball, I want to control the game — though you have to earn the right to play.”

Why Luton Chose Wilshere

Jack Wilshere left Arsenal on a free transfer in 2018 and joined West Ham

Luton, now sitting 11th in League One after back-to-back relegations from the Premier League, were seeking a coach to inject passion and long-term vision into the club.

Wilshere was selected from a final shortlist including Richie Wellens and Luke Williams, impressing the board with his tactical insight and enthusiasm.

He will be supported by experienced assistant Chris Powell (former Charlton boss), with further additions likely, including David Bridges, who previously worked with Wilshere at Arsenal.

What’s Next for the Hatters?

Wilshere’s reign begins with a home clash against Mansfield on Saturday — a pivotal match as Luton chase a play-off spot.

The Hatters believe Wilshere can bring Premier League-level insight, backed by youthful energy and coaching ambition, to help steer the club back to the Championship.