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Jonjo Shelvey announces retirement
TL;DR
Jonjo Shelvey has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 34 after an 18-year career. He will now become the manager of Arabian Falcons in the UAE, where he previously played.
Jonjo Shelvey announces retirement
The 34-year-old has called time on a professional playing career spanning 18 years and will now take over as manager of third-tier United Arab Emirates side Arabian Falcons, whom he initially joined as a player in September 2025.
Capped six times by England at senior level, Shelvey joined Newcastle United from Swansea City in January 2016 and carried out an impressive Magpies debut, playing his part in both goals during a 2-1 win against West Ham United in the 2015/16 campaign.
Despite suffering relegation from the Premier League, Shelvey played a pivotal role in United's immediate return to the English top-flight the following season, providing nine assists as Rafa Benítez's men lifted the Championship title, finishing above Brighton & Hove Albion by a single point.
Shelvey made 144 Premier League outings for the Magpies, scoring 11 goals.
His most important strike, arguably, came during Newcastle's 1-0 away win at Leeds United in the 2021/22 season, netting a late free-kick at Elland Road as United went on to secure their status in the English top-flight despite failing to win in their opening 14 matches.
Before his transfer to St. James' Park, Shelvey began his senior career at Charlton Athletic, becoming the club's youngest-ever player after making his professional bow as a 16-year-old under Alan Pardew's management.
A move to Liverpool followed in 2010, making his Premier League debut for the Reds during a three-year stint at Anfield before completing a move to Swansea City.
Following his departure from Newcastle in January 2023, Shelvey completed short stints at Nottingham Forest and Burnley as well as playing in Turkey for the likes of Çaykur Rizespor and Eyüpspor.
At international level, Shelvey was awarded his senior international debut by Roy Hodgson in October 2012, coming off the bench in a 5-0 win against San Marino before, three years later, making his first Three Lions start against the same opponents.
Everyone at Newcastle United would like to congratulate Jonjo on a magnificent playing career and wish him every success for the future.
Q&A
Why did Jonjo Shelvey retire from professional football?
Jonjo Shelvey announced his retirement to transition into a managerial role with Arabian Falcons in the UAE.
What teams did Jonjo Shelvey play for during his career?
Jonjo Shelvey played for several teams, including Newcastle United and Swansea City, throughout his 18-year professional career.
How many times did Jonjo Shelvey represent England at the senior level?
Jonjo Shelvey was capped six times by the England national team during his career.
