Mikel Arteta has already tipped Jack Wilshere to bring ‘special’ trait to Luton Town
Jack Wilshere is one of several players who had the best years of his career taken away from him, with the Englishman now trying his hand in management.
Wilshere retired from professional football in 2022 after suffering an injury-ravaged career, and since then, the former Arsenal maestro has been building his managerial experience.
The 33-year-old was the coach of Arsenal’s under-18s for almost two years before leaving in October 2024 to join Norwich City as a first-team coach.
After taking a huge leap in his career, Wilshere replaced Johanes Hoff Thorup as interim coach at Norwich in April 2025 and managed two Championship games before departing by mutual agreement a month later.
Now, the former midfielder is closing on his first permanent managerial role, and that will please Gunners boss Mikel Arteta.
Jack Wilshere has ‘special’ trait Luton Town will love
Football Insider revealed on Saturday, October 11, that Jack Wilshere is close to becoming Luton Town manager after sacking Matt Bloomfield.
Wilshere has since agreed personal terms with the Hatters, and Sky Sports have reported that he will be unveiled as the Luton boss on Monday, October 13.
For many supporters, Wilshere will be seen as a gamble, having only taken charge of two Championship matches previously.
But what he lacks in experience, he makes up for in personality, with Arteta once labelling his former teammate as ‘special’ following his departure from the club in October 2024.
“He’s been great. Everyone knows about his career, about his character and he’s a really special personality,” Arteta said.
“His attachments to the football club are unique. He has this aura and charisma and a way of connecting with people.
“He’s been an inspiration for the kids because of his history, what he did and the manner that he did it. What happens next is his decision.”
| Position | Points | Wins | Draws | Losses |
| 10th – Doncaster | 17 | 5 | 2 | 5 |
| 11th – Luton | 16 | 5 | 1 | 5 |
| 12th – Mansfield Town | 15 | 4 | 3 | 4 |
| 13th – Leyton Orient | 14 | 4 | 2 | 6 |
| 14th – Northampton | 14 | 4 | 2 | 5 |
Clearly, Wilshere is a likeable character, but he will need to hit the ground running at Kenilworth Road for his side to achieve promotion.
The pre-season promotion favourites are currently in 11th place after five wins, one draw and five losses from their opening fixtures.
Former players who became great managers
Becoming a manager is a totally different ball game to being a player, and some have struggled to make the transition, including the likes of Gary Neville, Paul Scholes and Sol Campbell.
But, Wilshere will be hoping that, after a promising start at Arsenal and Norwich, he can meet expectations and become a success at Luton.
Several names have achieved success in management after being top players, with former Man United defender Steve Bruce sharing the most promotions to the Premier League with Neil Warnock (4).
Meanwhile, the likes of Scott Parker and Richie Wellens have both enjoyed success in the EFL after retiring, something Wilshere will be inspired by.