Luton appoint former Arsenal and England midfielder Jack Wilshere as new boss

• Last Update: October 13, 2025 10:34:22 am BST • 3 min read

Jack Wilshere was this morning confirmed as the new manager of League One side Luton Town.

The former England midfielder started out at Luton as a young boy before moving to Arsenal, with whom he made almost 200 appearances before spells with West Ham, Bournemouth and AGF Aarhus.

Wilshere, 33, told the club’s official website: “It’s a huge honour and a privilege to be named Luton Town manager.

“It feels like a full-circle moment for me. I was eight when I first came to Luton as a boy, so I guess you could say it’s fate that my first full-time club managerial position is at this club.

“I couldn’t be more delighted to be here – I can’t wait to manage this football club.”

Wilshere inspired by Luton story

Having gone from non-league to the Premier League before suffering back-to-back relegations, the Hatters are now 11th in the third tier of English football.

“This club’s story inspires me,” added Wilshere, who replaces Matt Bloomfield in the role. “Built on belief, unity, and hard work.

“The club have shown incredible character on and off the pitch in recent times, and I’m honoured to lead to take the responsibility to lead this group into the future.

“There’s so much of the season still to play for and I’m excited about getting to work and putting my own stamp on things, and moving this club forward in a positive direction.

“I want to give the Luton fans a team they can be proud of, and the work to do that starts today.”

Shrewd move in naming Powell as assistant

Wilshere will be assisted by the vastly experienced Chris Powell.

Luton CEO Gary Sweet said: “Jack’s passion, intelligence, and modern approach to the game align perfectly with the values and ambitions of Luton Town. His experience at the highest level and commitment to developing talent make him the ideal fit for our next chapter.

“He has impressed everyone involved in our extensive selection process with his passion for football, his determination to succeed in management and his deep knowledge of all things Luton Town.

“That started as a very young boy in our youth system, and has continued throughout his life, always living locally and with close friends who are long-term season ticket holders at Kenilworth Road.

“It was during his time training with our first team at The Brache in the summer of 2022 where he refamiliarised himself with the club, and realised the time was right to follow his coaching path, which took him back to Arsenal, where the world of course had seen him come through as a generational midfield talent.

“Luton has always been a part of his journey, and as a club renowned for giving young coaches their break in management, we are so pleased to welcome him back.

“He already knows a number of our squad, and as a Board we are all excited at the prospect of seeing his career progress alongside someone as respected in the game as Chris.”

Wilshere will take charge of the Hatters for the first time when they host Mansfield on Saturday.