Arsenal: Footage of Jack Wilshere's speech after beating Spurs in first win as coach

Jack Wilshere is taking a new direction in his footballing career this season.

Announcing his retirement as a professional player this summer upon the expiration of his contract at Danish side AGF, Wilshere now has his sights set on making a name for himself in the world of coaching.

Just a week after the former England international hung up his boots, it was announced that he would be taking his first step on the managerial ladder as the head coach of Arsenal‘s under-18 side.

The move would see Wilshere play a key role in the very youth set-up that helped him rise through the ranks at Arsenal to become the talented first-teamer who tamed a prime Barcelona that Gooners still adore to this day.

According to Sky Sports, Wilshere said upon inheriting the position: “It’s a huge honour to have this role. It’s no secret that I love this club. I love what we stand for and you know a big part of my life was spent in this academy, some of the best days of my life.

“This is a big opportunity for me and I’m ready. I’m hungry and can’t wait to help these young players thrive and be the best they can be on and off the pitch.

“It’s a special feeling to be part of the Arsenal family. It never left me, even though I moved on for a few years, my heart was always still at Arsenal. I can’t wait to get started and help these young players thrive with a great team around me.”

So, how has Wilshere the coach been faring in the Arsenal U18 hot seat so far? Well, there’s been a little bit of everything actually as the young Gunners opened up their 2022/23 season with one win, one draw and one loss.

Wilshere suffered a 1-0 defeat to Chelsea U18 on his coaching debut, before taking a step in the right direction next time out with a 1-1 draw