Jonjo Shelvey announces retirement | OneFootball

The 34-year-old has called time on a professional playing career spanning 18 years and will now take over as manager of second-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, recording five goals and nine assists as Rafa Benítez's men lifted the Championship title, finishing above Brighton & Hove Albion by a single point.

Shelvey made 202 competitive outings for the Magpies, scoring 18 goals across all competitions.

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.