Luton Town has officially announced the appointment of former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere as their new head coach. The 33-year-old takes the helm at the Championship club, marking his first full-time managerial position.
This significant appointment, confirmed on October 14, makes Wilshere one of the youngest managers currently leading a team in England’s second tier. The role became vacant following the departure of Matt Bloomfield, who was dismissed after the club expressed dissatisfaction with a 2-0 defeat to local rivals Stevenage last week. Luton Town, a club that recently featured in the Premier League, was eager to find a new leader to guide their campaign in the EFL Championship and identified Wilshere as their preferred candidate despite considering other options.
Wilshere has penned a three-year contract with Luton, a clear indication of the club’s belief in his long-term vision. This move represents a pivotal moment in his burgeoning coaching career, following a playing career that was both brilliant and, at times, plagued by injury.
The former England international, who earned 34 caps for his country, retired from professional football at the age of 30 in 2022 while playing for Danish club AGF Aarhus. His departure from Arsenal in 2018 was largely attributed to persistent injury issues and a subsequent lack of regular first-team appearances. Wilshere made 197 appearances for the Gunners, famously making his senior debut in 2008 at just 16 years and 256 days old, before establishing himself as a regular by the 2010-11 season.
His playing career was significantly hampered by a series of injuries, notably a severe right ankle issue sustained during the 2021-22 pre-season. At one point, he spent over three years sidelined without being named in a squad. Even at 25, surgeons had warned him about the career-threatening nature of his injuries, yet he managed to continue playing for another five years before ultimately retiring.
After hanging up his boots, Wilshere swiftly transitioned into coaching, joining Arsenal’s academy staff. He notably managed the club’s Under-18 squad, working closely under the guidance of first-team manager Mikel Arteta. This period allowed him to gain invaluable insights into modern football management, drawing upon the tactical acumen of both Arteta and legendary former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.
Prior to this role, Wilshere had a brief stint as an interim coach for Norwich City in 2024, overseeing two matches. His appointment at Luton Town now offers him the opportunity to implement his philosophy and lead a senior professional team on a permanent basis, opening an exciting new chapter for both the former player and the Hatters.
