Arsenal reveal Jack Wilshere replacement after taking new coaching role in Championship

Arsenal have announced Adam Birchall as their new Under-18s coach after Jack Wilshere left the club to take up a new role with Championship side Norwich City.
Wilshere has been working with the Gunners youth side since 2022 following his retirement from football aged 30 amid consistent injuries problems - but has now opted for a new challenge with the Canaries as he looks to progress his coaching career.

The former Arsenal prodigy, who played 197 times for the club after joining them as a nine-year-old, has impressed as a coach since hanging up his boots, working closely with Arsenal's youth development boss Per Mertesacker and leading the Under-18s to the FA Youth Cup final.

And after joining Norwich, Arsenal have quickly moved to announce Wilshere's successor, revealing Birchall will take the reins after being promoted from his role as assistant to the ex-midfielder.

Birchall - who started his career with Arsenal before lower league stints with Barnet, Mansfield Town, Gillingham and Dover - had previously been in charge of the Under-17s side after joining the academy staff in 2016.

The club said in a statement: "We are delighted to announce that Adam Birchall has become our Under-18s head coach following Jack Wilshere’s departure. Wishing you the best of luck in your new role, Adam."

Academy boss Mertesacker hailed Birchall, calling him a "key member of the Arsenal family" and said he was highly-qualified to slot into his new role and inspire the next generation of Gunners stars.

Adam Birchall
Wilshere's assistant Adam Birchall has been announced as his successor
Wilshere will now link up with Norwich boss Johannes Hoff Thorup and his staff, with the team currently seventh in the Championship after four wins, five draws and two losses from 11 games.

After being unveiled by Norwich, he thanked Arsenal for giving him a chance in coaching and revealed how the Canaries lured him to Carrow Road.

"When I met [Sporting director] Ben [Knapper] and Johannes, I was really impressed by their vision and plans for the club," he said. "I’ve heard a lot about the environment around the club, and the facilities at the training centre are first class.

"I feel like I’ve learned so much during my time coaching with Arsenal and I’ll be forever thankful for that experience. I’m now really looking forward to working with the coaching staff and players and can’t wait to get going."

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