Jack Wilshere has officially joined Norwich City as their new first team coach.
The Arsenal fan favourite has decided to leave his position as head coach of the club’s Under-18 team to become part of Johannes Hoff Thorup’s backroom staff at Carrow Road.
Wilshere, who was scouted by Arsenal at the age of nine, retired from professional football in 2022 before returning to the Gunners to work in the academy.
During his tenure as the Under-18s boss, he led the team to the FA Youth Cup final in 2023, where they were defeated 5-1 by West Ham at the Emirates Stadium.
This new role marks a significant step in Wilshere’s career as he transitions into first-team football.
Norwich City, currently sitting seventh in the Championship, are eager to provide him with this opportunity.
His move has been facilitated by his strong relationship with Norwich’s sporting director, Ben Knapper, which was developed during their time together at Arsenal.
Speaking of his move to the Canaries’ website, Wilshere said: “I’m delighted to be joining Norwich City.
“It is a fantastic opportunity at a very impressive club, and one which has come at the right time to progress my coaching career within a first-team environment.
“When I met Ben and Johannes, I was really impressed by their vision and plans for the club. I’ve heard a lot about the environment around the club, and the facilities at the training centre are first class.
“I feel like I’ve learned so much during my time coaching with Arsenal and I’ll be forever thankful for that experience.
“I’m now really looking forward to working with the coaching staff and players and can’t wait to get going.”
Arsenal’s academy manager Per Mertesacker said: “Jack’s development as a coach over the past two seasons has been really impressive.
“Jack has represented Arsenal in the best possible way, both as a player and in his role as an academy coach.
“Jack has not only been a role model for our younger generation on the pitch – showing the young players the skills required at the highest level, but has also demonstrated every day how to be the best possible person.
“Of course, we are all sad to see Jack leave, but we are so proud that we have played a positive part in his development into the next stage of his career as a young coach.
“We wish Jack and his family well at Norwich City, and his many friends here will be keeping in close contact with him as his journey in coaching continues.”
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