Former Arsenal and England midfielder Jack Wilshere has announced his retirement from professional football.
The news comes just over 24 hours after the news that he has left Danish club AGF after less than five months and is now “contemplating his next step” in his career.
Wilshere became the Gunners’ youngest league debutant aged 16 and 256 days in 2008 after progressing through the club’s academy.
Hampered by a series of injuries, the midfielder won the FA Cup twice in a row with Arsenal in 2014 and 2015 before joining Bournemouth and then West Ham.
Wilshere returned to the Cherries on short notice in January 2021 and also played for Danish Superliga club AGF.
After making his debut for England in 2010, Wilshere won 34 caps and was part of the 2014 World Cup squad.
“It’s been an incredible journey full of incredible moments and I feel privileged to have experienced everything that I have experienced throughout my career,” Wilshere said in his resignation statement on Twitter.
“From being a little boy playing football in the garden to captaining my beloved arsenal to playing for my country at a World Cup. I’ve lived my dream.
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Former Arsenal and West Ham midfielder Jack Wilshere says generations of footballers have grown up wanting to play like Diego Maradona.
“In truth, while I felt I had so much to give, it’s been difficult to accept that my career has been slipping away lately for reasons beyond my control.
“Having played at the highest level, I always had such high ambitions in the game and if I’m honest, at times I didn’t imagine being in that position.
“However, having had time to reflect and speak to my closest friends, I know now is the right time and despite the difficult moments, I look back on what I have achieved with great pride.
“Playing at the highest level with some of the best players in the world, winning FA Cups, becoming captain of my club and representing my country was beyond my wildest dreams growing up as a little boy in Hitchin.
“I feel very fortunate to have had the career that I have had, but none of this would have been possible without the love and support of so many people.”
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Former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere stresses the importance of talking about mental health and how talking to others has helped him.
Wilshere paid tribute to former Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger and his staff for giving the young midfielder a chance.
“Words never do justice to the love and gratitude I have for The Boss, Arsene, Pat Rice and Boro Primorac,” Wilshere said.
“I could not have become part of the Arsenal family without your faith, support and guidance from the day we met. I am forever grateful to you all.
“To the best fans in the world, all Arsenal fans, thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Playing for you all was a privilege.
“You have always made me feel supported and I hope I have made you proud to represent your club. I will never forget how you always supported me and I will be a Gooner forever.”
Wilshere hinted that he might try to stay involved in the game going forward.
“I’ve enjoyed every moment of my career and it’s been the journey of a lifetime,” he said.
“Now is the right time to close this chapter, but I still have so much to add to the game and I’m excited to see what the future holds.”
Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart responded to the same post on Instagram, writing: “Top fellow player. Lots of love and happiness for the future.”
Robbie Keane replied: “Good luck mate for the future,” while Declan Rice added: “Wilsh I love you bro. honor to know you and play with you!”