Jack Wilshere has applied to be the new head coach of Aberdeen but the Arsenal U18 manager is unlikely to replace Barry Robson at the Scottish Premiership squad’s helm.
The Pittodrie Stadium side are on the search for a new boss after sacking Robson earlier this week. Aberdeen fired Robson, as well as his assistant Steve Agnew, this Wednesday with the Dons sat in eighth in the Premiership table. They also visit table-toppers Celtic this Saturday.
Robson took over Aberdeen in January 2023 on an interim basis but he secured the role full-time. He would even win two SPFL Manager of the Month awards, whilst the Dons qualified for the Europa Conference League group stages. Now, Wilshere is eager to replace Robson.
Arsenal U18 boss Jack Wilshere applies to replace Barry Robson at Aberdeen
The Daily Record reports that Aberdeen have already received a dozen approaches for their now-vacant position, including one from Arsenal U18 coach Wilshere. The Gunners cult hero is looking to take over for his big break into first-team coaching after 18 months at Hale End.
Wilshere took over Arsenal’s academy side in July 2022 after the Hale End product retired as a player that summer. Now, he is competing with former Celtic coach Neil Lennon, as well as Neil Warnock, Alex Neil and the Dons’ caretaker manager, Peter Leven, to fill Robson’s void.
Aberdeen have made approaches to a handful of possible candidates. But they have not yet held talks with Lennon as he is in the running to take over the Republic of Ireland. Wilshere is also low down in the Dons’ shortlist, while Neil is unlikely to return to Scotland as it stands.
Aberdeen are sceptical about naming the Hale End hero as their manager
While Wilshere is keen to leave Arsenal and replace Robson after submitting his application, he is unlikely to take charge as the Aberdeen board feel he lacks experience. The Dons want a candidate with a proven record as a first-team coach having handed Robson his big break.
Robson was the Dons’ B-Team manager before he took over the senior side at Pittodrie. The ex-Aberdeen midfielder had also only coached in their academy after taking to the dugout in 2016. So, Aberdeen are sceptical about repeating the path by appointing Wilshere this time.
Wilshere is still in his first managerial role in Arsenal’s academy, despite interviewing for the MLS franchise Colorado Rapids last October. His Gunners youth side also sit third in the U18 Premier League south, trailing leaders Tottenham by seven points with two fixtures in hand.
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