Jack Wilshere has shared a poignant farwell message on social media after leaving his boyhood club Arsenal to take up a new coaching role at Norwich City.
The former England international had worked with the club in a managerial capacity since 2022, when he joined Arsenal’s Under 18s set-up in a role he held until last month.
But Wilshere made the decision in October to join the Canaries as part of head coach Johannes Hoff Thorup’s backroom team, in a deal facilitated by former Arsenal executive Ben Knapper – who now works as sporting director at Carrow Road.
Wilshere had held talks with MLS club Colorado Rapids about becoming their manager last October, but opted to stay in north London at Arsenal.
A year later however, and Wilshere is set to move on – but revealed his emotions at the prospect of doing so in a touching Instagram goodbye post.
‘Football is crazy,’ Wilshere wrote on the social media platform. ‘Things can change quick and I haven’t had the chance to thank everyone at Arsenal’s academy for the last two years.
‘Everyone knows that Arsenal is my club and leaving is never easy, especially when you care so much about the club, the staff and most importantly the players.
‘When I retired from football I took the step into coaching, Arsenal gave me the opportunity to take my first role as a head coach, I learnt so much! But I couldn’t have done it without the help and support of the staff.
‘We shared some tough moments but also some amazing memories that gave me feelings I had never experienced in the game. Arsenal remains in my blood and I will be watching every game as a fan.
‘I hope we see some more young players from the academy taking that step to the first team! Adam Birchall, good luck my friend. Until we meet again.’
After saying his goodbyes, however, Wilshere was keen to introduce himself to his new club’s fans.
‘So excited to be here at Norwich City. Thanks to the fans and everyone at the club for such a warm welcome!’ Wilshere added.
‘I will give my all to try and play my part in getting this club back to where it belongs!’
