Jack Wilshere has been appointed as the new manager of Luton Town, marking his first permanent role as a head coach. The 33-year-old former Arsenal and England midfielder steps into the position following the dismissal of Matt Bloomfield, with the club currently sitting mid-table in League One.
Luton, who played in the Premier League during the 2023–24 season, have endured a difficult period with successive relegations. Wilshere’s appointment represents a new chapter in the club’s efforts to rebuild and return to higher divisions. The move also holds sentimental value for Wilshere, who began his football journey at Luton’s centre of excellence at the age of eight before joining Arsenal a year later.
Speaking on his appointment, Wilshere expressed his pride and excitement, describing the moment as a return to his roots. He highlighted the emotional connection he has with the club, recalling his early days as a young player in Luton’s system and emphasizing how special it feels to begin his managerial career where his football story first started.
Before taking the role, Wilshere gained valuable coaching experience with Arsenal’s academy and served as a first-team coach at Norwich City under Johannes Hoff Thorup. He also had a brief stint as Norwich’s caretaker manager at the end of the previous season, impressing observers with his tactical approach despite not being selected for the permanent role.
Wilshere’s debut match as Luton manager will come at home against Mansfield on Saturday. Supporting him in the dugout will be Chris Powell, an experienced coach and former manager of Charlton Athletic, who has also worked with the England national team. Powell’s presence is expected to provide strong mentorship and tactical balance to Wilshere’s young and ambitious management team.
Luton’s chief executive, Gary Sweet, praised Wilshere’s deep ties to the club and the local community. He noted that Wilshere has maintained close connections with Luton throughout his life, living locally and maintaining friendships with long-term supporters. Sweet added that Wilshere’s decision to train with Luton’s first team in 2022 reignited his passion for coaching and strengthened his bond with the club.
With Wilshere at the helm, Luton Town now embark on a fresh journey, blending youthful energy with experienced guidance in hopes of reigniting their push back up the football pyramid.
