Jack Wilshere leaves Arsenal to join Norwich as first team coach

Per Mertesacker pays tribute to Jack Wilshere 

Jack Wilshere is leaving his role as U18s head coach to join Norwich City as a first-team coach. 

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.”

The former Arsenal midfielder rejoined the club in July 2022 as U18s head coach and made an immediate impact, leading the team to the FA Youth Cup Final in his first full season in charge.

Since returning to the club, Jack, who himself developed through the Gunners acclaimed academy before making 197 senior appearances for the club, has been an influential figure for our young players at what is a crucial stage of their careers.

Jack added: “I’ve loved every minute of my time as Under-18s head coach and would like to thank Edu, Per, Mikel, my colleagues in the academy and everyone at the club for their fantastic support during my time in the role. 

“As everyone knows, Arsenal is and always will be part of who I am, and the club means so much to me.

"However, this opportunity has come at the right time to progress my coaching career within a first-team environment.

“I have an incredibly special bond with the players and staff at Arsenal, and am so proud of the work we have done as a collective over the last two-and-a-half years. It’s been a privilege to have been involved in the development and progression of such a special group, and I’ll be continuing to watch and support from afar.

"The future is exciting both for the academy players and the club, and I know the group I’ve been working with will continue to progress and have the potential to achieve great things.

“I’d like to thank everyone at Arsenal Football Club for their support and understanding in my decision and wish everybody at the club the very best for the future.

"This club will always be close to my heart and for me, this is a ‘see you again’ rather than ‘goodbye’.”