Former Liverpool and England midfielder Jonjo Shelvey has announced his retirement from professional football and will take up his first role as manager immediately. The 34-year-old will leave England in 2025 and relocate to the UAE, signing for third-division side Arabian Falcons. The former Newcastle United star has made eight appearances for the club this season, but will now move into the club’s dugout.
Shelvey will be managed by former Manchester United wonder Lavelle Morrison and will operate under the watchful eye of former Crystal Palace and Southampton winger Jason Puncheon. He now serves as co-owner and head of football operations following a recent ownership change. The Falcons currently sit third in the UAE’s second division and have ambitions of promotion to the top flight this season, and it is hoped that Shelvey will be able to use his wealth of experience to lead the team forward from the touchline.
Commenting on his appointment, Mr Shelby said: “I am excited to take on this challenge and take the Falcons forward. We have a talented group and a clear vision to achieve promotion and build something special in Dubai. My ambition is to rise to the top of the management team and this is the perfect project to prove myself and my abilities.”
Puncheon added: “Jonjo is a perfect fit for our project. His experience at the highest level, combined with his personality and greed, will be an inspiration to the team as we aim for promotion and long-term success.” The Falcons also have their sights set on qualifying for the 2029 Club World Cup, which will see the top-performing clubs in the UAE Pro League participate and have a chance to qualify for the prestigious tournament.
The club are targeting back-to-back promotions to put themselves in real competition, but a revamped management structure and new ownership could be the deciding factor.
Shelvey won six caps for England between 2012 and 2015, making 278 Premier League appearances for Liverpool, Swansea City, Newcastle United, Nottingham Forest and Burnley.
The midfielder opened up about his decision to move from England to the UAE last year, revealing he was looking for a “fresh start” as he became increasingly disillusioned with life in England.
“I’ve had my time,” said the Londoner. “I’m happy and content. I’m at a stage now where I want to enjoy my football. It’s about waking up, enjoying what I’m doing and spending time with my family.”
“To be honest, I don’t want my children to grow up in England any longer. I’m very lucky to live in a nice part of the country, but I don’t think anything good can ever happen where I come from.
“You don’t wear a watch in London anymore. In my opinion, you can’t take your phone out in London. I feel like Britain is not what it was 10 to 15 years ago.”
