Former Premier League midfielder Jonjo Shelvey, 34, has embarked on his managerial journey with Arabian Falcons FC in the UAE Second Division. Shelvey asserts he feels safer in the United Arab Emirates than in England, citing a stark contrast in perceived security and public behavior. He has also declared his intention to visit Newcastle United soon to observe manager Eddie Howe's training sessions and gain insights.
Shelvey’s move away from England is rooted in significant safety concerns, with the former Newcastle player bluntly stating that "England is full of scumbags." He claims an absence of unease since relocating, preferring to concentrate on developing his coaching philosophy. This decision to manage in Dubai comes after a playing career that included spells at Liverpool, Swansea City, Newcastle United, and Çaykur Rizespor.
His career highlights, as identified by Shelvey, include representing England, his time at Newcastle United, and his final season playing in Turkey. The transition to management, which he contemplated for several weeks, sees him taking on his first head coaching role.
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Shelvey maintains a strong affinity for his former club, Newcastle United, and expressed admiration for manager Eddie Howe. He recalls Howe as "one of the best managers that I've worked under, in terms of his management and his detail." Shelvey plans to return to Newcastle to learn from Howe, a manager who he feels is a "serial winner" and whose professional approach he respects. This sentiment contrasts with his feelings during the club's ownership change from Mike Ashley to the PIF, a period he described as creating internal conflict.
Reflecting on his playing days, Shelvey spoke of a viral penalty miss, noting that the opposing goalkeeper, Illan Meslier, "chucked one in for us." He also touched upon his decision to leave England, suggesting that certain environments, like London, are not conducive to constant phone usage, implying a preference for the quieter pace of his current surroundings. He believes that for aspiring players, moving to the UAE to play football presents a straightforward and attractive option.
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