Former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has openly revealed his immense regret over leaving the North London club back in 2018. Wilshere, who emerged to prominence as a precocious talent under Arsene Wenger’s management in 2008, left at an important point in his career.
Despite an unstable stint hampered by chronic injuries, including a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to an ankle injury during his debut season, Wilshere was an enduring favourite among Arsenal fans.
During an interview on Up Front with Simon Jordan, Wilshere stated that leaving Arsenal was a mistake.
“Frustration is the first thing that comes to mind,” he admitted.
“Yes, I finished at 30 which was early. But being honest, probably when I left Arsenal I certainly was on the way down.
“Struggled a bit at West Ham to find fitness and form. At that point, I look back and I thought I should have stayed at Arsenal, they offered me a deal.
“But probably what I was holding onto was that support around Arsenal, the physios, the doctor, who I really knew well and understood me. I lost that when I left Arsenal and that was the beginning of the end for me.”
Following stints with West Ham, Bournemouth, and Danish club Aarhus, the 32-year-old retired from professional football in 2022.
However, he has since found comfort and purpose in coaching, currently acting as Arsenal’s Under-18s manager, passing on his essential experience to the next generation.
Although his physical problems, Wilshere’s memorable moments in an Arsenal shirt, especially his magnificent strike against Norwich City, live on in the hearts of fans.
As he considers over the what-ifs of his career path, Wilshere’s return to the club in a coaching capacity is an emotional reunion, highlight his ongoing commitment to his childhood club.
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