SOCCER: Shelvey ends playing career to manage UAE's Arabian Falcons

Former England midfielder Jonjo Shelvey has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 34. After an illustrious career in the Premier League, Shelvey has shifted his focus to management, accepting the role of head coach at Arabian Falcons FC in the United Arab Emirates' third tier.

Shelvey, known for his stints with Premier League clubs such as Liverpool, Swansea City, Newcastle United, and Nottingham Forest, has also represented England at the international level, earning six caps.

In September 2025, he made a move to the Dubai-based Arabian Falcons from Burnley, where he played eight matches during the 2025-26 season.

"My ambition is to climb to the very top of management, and this is the perfect project to prove myself and showcase what I am capable of," said Shelvey.

Shelvey's transition into management comes as no surprise to those who have followed his career, with many believing his leadership qualities and experience will serve him well in his new role.

-Reporting by Rishabh Jaiswal in Bengaluru; Editing by Thomas Derpinghaus/Reuters