Former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere set for first senior management role aged 31

FOOTBALL Former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere set for first senior management role aged 31

Mark Kinyanjui 21:00 - 12.10.2023

Wilshere, who currently managed Arsenal’s u18 side, has been granted permission by the North London outfit to speak to MLS side Colorado Rapids who are also owned by the Kroenke family.

Former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has been given permission to speak to the Colorado Rapids about becoming their manager.

The 31-year-old, who allied time on his career in July 2022, has been offered a chance to launch his managerial career at senior level after reportedly impressing the MLS side in an interview.

According to The Athletic, Arsenal have granted Wilshere permission to speak to the MLS side.

The former England midfielder is keen on a senior management role if the right opportunity arises, the report adds.

The club have yet to confirm his appointment as head coach, but there is a good chance that he could take over the job.

Robin Fraser was sacked by the Rapids, who like Arsenal, are also owned by the Kroenke Sports & Entertainment Group, in September.

Chris Little has been in charge on an interim basis since Fraser's exit.

Wilshere returned to Arsenal in July last year after announcing his retirement aged 30.

He has since been managing the club's under-18s side and guided the Gunners to last season's FA Youth Cup final.

As a player, Wilshere progressed through Arsenal's academy before making his senior debut aged 16 in 2008.

By the time his 17-year association with the club ended in 2018, he had made 197 appearances, scoring 14 goals and winning the FA Cup twice.

Wilshere later had spells with West Ham, Bournemouth and Danish side Aarhus before hanging up his boots.

He also won 34 caps for England as a player, scoring two goals.