Former England international Jonjo Shelvey is making headlines again — this time not for scoring goals, but for a significant life choice. The 33-year-old ex-Liverpool and Newcastle United midfielder shared that his relocation to Dubai is driven by family values and lifestyle, rather than money or football fame. “I don’t want my kids growing up in England,” Shelvey stated, igniting discussions among fans and media alike.
Currently, Shelvey plays for Arabian Falcons, a team in the UAE Second Division League, which is the third tier of football in the Emirates. Even though the league is modest, with average salaries around £2,000 a month, Shelvey emphasizes that his decision was personal, not financial. “My brother earns more working in a hotel in London,” he told BBC Sports.
Currently, Shelvey plays for Arabian Falcons, a team in the UAE Second Division League, which is the third tier of football in the Emirates. Even though the league is modest, with average salaries around £2,000 a month, Shelvey emphasizes that his decision was personal, not financial. “My brother earns more working in a hotel in London,” he told BBC Sports.
His recent appearance in a viral video — where he missed a penalty against Al Fath at the Jebel Ali Shooting Club, in front of fewer than 100 fans — has reignited interest in his career. But Shelvey seems unbothered. “I’ve seen people say I went for money. What money?” he chuckled, highlighting the lack of wealth in the UAE’s lower leagues.
Shelvey’s move also brought him back together with Harry Agombar, a childhood friend from Arsenal’s academy, who is now managing Arabian Falcons. The team features other familiar faces like Ravel Morrison, adding a touch of nostalgia to Shelvey’s new journey.
For fans, Shelvey’s story serves as a reminder that footballers are more than just athletes — they’re fathers, dreamers, and sometimes, rebels against the status quo. His choice to prioritize his children’s upbringing over traditional career paths is a bold statement in today’s world.
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