Jonjo Shelvey, the former England international and seasoned Premier League midfielder, is embracing a fresh chapter in his footballing career with Arabian Falcons in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Second Division League. Shelvey, who made 278 Premier League appearances with Newcastle United, Liverpool, Swansea City, and Nottingham Forest, insists his move to Dubai is motivated by lifestyle and family priorities, not financial gain.
Viral Penalty Miss and Life in Dubai
Shelvey recently attracted attention after a penalty miss during a UAE Second Division match against Al Fath went viral. Despite the clip reaching over a million views, the midfielder remained unbothered.
“It doesn’t bother me,” Shelvey said. “I’ve since seen a few things like ‘he’s gone there for money.’ I’m thinking, ‘what money? There’s no money in the UAE Second Division League.’”
He elaborated that the typical monthly salary for players in the league hovers around £2,000—a fraction of what he earned during his Premier League career. “My brother earns more working in a hotel in London, so it was never about coming here for the money,” he added.
The decision to join Arabian Falcons, a team managed by childhood friend Harry Agombar, stemmed from a desire to restart his football career after two months of inactivity and an unsuccessful trial at Hull City, which was hampered by a hamstring injury.
A Fresh Start for Family and Lifestyle
For Shelvey, Dubai represents more than just football—it is a lifestyle choice for him and his family.
“I’ve had my time,” he said. “I’m happy and content. I just want to enjoy football, wake up looking forward to what I do, and spend time with my family.”
Shelvey has been outspoken about wanting his children to grow up outside of England. “If I’m honest, I don’t want my children growing up in England any more. We’re very lucky that we lived in a nice part of the UK, but where I’m from originally, you can’t have nice things in my opinion. I’d never wear a watch in London any more. You can’t have your phone out.”
His concerns are echoed by rising crime statistics and high-profile theft incidents in the UK. Yet, he maintains that his decision is motivated by quality of life rather than politics. “I’m not massive on reading politics,” he explained. “I just see some of the things that go on… I feel the UK isn’t what it was 10 to 15 years ago.”
Fond Memories of Newcastle United
Despite relocating to the UAE, Shelvey retains a strong affection for Newcastle United, where he spent seven years—the longest stint of his career. He praised the support he received from fans and the club’s management.
“There’s loads of things to do in Newcastle. You will not find love at a football club like I found at Newcastle, with how they take to their players and how much they back you,” he said.
Shelvey reflected on memorable moments, including helping Newcastle bounce back after relegation in 2016 and scoring a crucial goal against Leeds United three and a half years ago, which he described as pivotal in solidifying then-head coach Eddie Howe’s reign.
Coaching Ambitions and Future Plans
While focusing on playing for Arabian Falcons, Shelvey is also preparing for life after his playing career. He is pursuing a UEFA A Licence coaching qualification and combining evening coaching sessions in Dubai with morning training.
“I want to get into coaching on merit rather than relying on someone I know,” Shelvey said. He has been encouraged to reconnect with Howe or observe coaching at Newcastle but prefers to build his credentials independently.
Playing in the UAE and Team Environment
Shelvey described the UAE Second Division as a competitive environment where players’ quality can surprise. He mentioned teammates like ex-Manchester United and West Ham midfielder Ravel Morrison and others who could compete in League One or League Two in England.
However, he admits his body is no longer at its peak. “When you get older, every time you go on the training pitch, you think, ‘is this going to be my last session?’ If I got a bad injury now, I would probably call it a day… while I still feel relatively good, strong, and fit, I’ll just keep going.”
Life Philosophy and Perspective
Shelvey’s move underscores a broader shift in priorities for professional athletes as they mature. Money is no longer the driving factor; family, lifestyle, and the enjoyment of the game take precedence.
“Football is still a passion, but it’s also about living in a place where my family can feel safe and happy,” he concluded. “Dubai has given us that chance.”
For Shelvey, the viral penalty miss and headlines are minor distractions in a life reoriented around football, family, and a secure environment. His candid reflections offer insight into the decisions players make beyond the pitch and challenge assumptions about moves to less prominent leagues.
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