Former Premier League midfielder Jonjo Shelvey has moved to a third-tier club in the United Arab Emirates, stating his decision was driven by concerns over safety in London and a desire to enjoy football, rather than financial incentives.
Shelvey, 33, specifically refuted suggestions that money was his primary motivation for joining the Arabian Falcons. He told the BBC that the average monthly salary in the UAE’s third division is approximately £2,000, or about $2,540 USD.
“There’s no money in the third division of the UAE,” Shelvey said. “Compared to what I’ve earned throughout my career, that’s nothing. My brother earns more working in a hotel in London.”
His main goal now, the former England international explained, is simply to “enjoy football” at this stage of his career.
Shelvey also voiced strong reservations about raising his children in England, particularly in London. “I no longer want my children to grow up in England,” he stated.
He detailed personal safety concerns, saying he “would never wear a watch in London again.” Shelvey added that, in his opinion, “you can’t walk around with your phone visible in London.”
Shelvey had a notable career in English football, including stints at Liverpool, Swansea, Newcastle, and Nottingham Forest, before his unexpected move to the Middle East.