Former England and Premier League midfielder Jonjo Shelvey has officially retired from playing professional Association football. The 34-year-old will now transition into management, taking over as the manager of the third-tier United Arab Emirates side, Arabian Falcons FC.
A New Chapter in Dubai
Shelvey has been playing for the Dubai-based club—which was formed in 2023—since September, alongside former Manchester United midfielder Ravel Morrison. The club also has ties to other former Premier League talent, with ex-Crystal Palace midfielder Jason Puncheon serving as co-owner and head of football operations.
“My ambition is to climb to the very top of management and this is the perfect project to prove myself and what I’m capable of,” Shelvey stated.
Fans will get a behind-the-scenes look at this transition, as a documentary is currently in production that will follow Shelvey attempting to lead the Arabian Falcons to promotion during the final five games of the current season.
Controversial Remarks on England
Shelvey’s move to the Middle East came alongside candid and controversial remarks regarding his home country. Earlier this season, he made headlines when he told BBC Sport that he no longer wanted his children growing up in England.
“We’re very lucky that we lived in a nice part of the UK but where I’m from, originally, you can’t have nice things in my opinion,” he explained.
Looking Back at Shelvey’s Career
Shelvey enjoyed a lengthy and notable career in English football before his recent move abroad. His playing career highlights include:
- Starting his professional journey at Charlton Athletic.
- Playing in the top flight for major clubs including Liverpool F.C., Swansea City, Newcastle United F.C., and Nottingham Forest.
- Featuring for Blackpool (on loan), Burnley, and Turkish sides Caykur Rizespor and Eyupspor.
- Earning six caps for the England national football team in 2012 and 2016, all under the management of Roy Hodgson.
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