Jack Wilshere hails guiding Arsenal U18s to FA Youth Cup final as one of his career highlights, after dramatic win over Man City.
Arsenal U18s secure place in final
Jack Wilshere has expressed his elation after leading Arsenal’s Under-18 side to the FA Youth Cup final, calling it one of the top moments in his career.
Arsenal’s youngsters secured their spot in the final with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night. Myles Lewis-Skelly scored the decisive goal in the final minute of extra time.
Wilshere compares coaching win to playing career
Wilshere, the former Arsenal and England midfielder, took charge of Arsenal’s U18s last summer after retiring from football at 30.
With two FA Cups and 34 England appearances under his belt, he now says the win over Manchester City rivals the accomplishments of his playing days.
“It’s relief, joy, love for the players, emotions – everything. For me, right now, it feels like one of the top moments of my career as a coach, obviously as a coach as I am young coach, but as a player as well it feels like it’s up there,” said Wilshere.
Arsenal to face West Ham or Southampton
Arsenal will face either West Ham or Southampton in the final, which is set to take place at the Emirates Stadium.
The FA have not yet confirmed the date but has said it will be held before April 29.
The young Guns are looking to win their first FA Youth Cup since 2009, when Wilshere was part of the team.
Arsenal sold 10,000 tickets for the semifinal at the Emirates, and Wilshere hopes to see even more fans in the stands for the final.
He praised the spirit of his young team, who showed determination and resilience throughout the competition.
“This team keeps doing it. They are so good and so easily coachable, then this creates a belief in them and you see it at the the end. They scare me because they leave one-on-one on the backline, but they want to push, they want to attack. I love that spirit of: ‘Let’s go and score a goal’,” Wilshere added.
With a blend of excitement and anticipation surrounding the FA Youth Cup final, Arsenal’s U18s and Jack Wilshere will look to make history and continue the club’s tradition of nurturing young talent.
Fans can expect an action-packed match, regardless of whether West Ham or Southampton join them in the final. The Emirates Stadium is set to witness an unforgettable night as these youngsters aim to secure the coveted trophy for the first time in over a decade.