Former England international Jonjo Shelvey has gone viral after missing a penalty for Arabian Falcons in the UAE Second Division League — but the ex-Newcastle United midfielder insists he’s completely unfazed.
Footage of the Shelvey penalty miss spread rapidly on social media after the Arabian Falcons captain failed to hit the target against Al Fath, despite only around 75 fans being in attendance at the Jebel Ali Shooting Club earlier this month.
“It doesn’t bother me,” Shelvey said after the clip racked up more than a million views. “People have said I went out here for money — but what money? There’s no big wages in the UAE Second Division. The average salary is about £2,000 a month. My brother earns more working in a hotel in London. I came here for a fresh start, not for money.”
Why Jonjo Shelvey Joined the Arabian Falcons
After leaving Newcastle United and an unsuccessful trial at Hull City, Shelvey found himself without a club and recovering from a hamstring injury. Then came a call from Harry Agombar, the manager of the Arabian Falcons and a childhood friend, who invited him to move to Dubai to help grow the club.
“I’d been doing nothing for two months,” said Shelvey. “Harry asked me to come out and help build something. My family were settled on Tyneside, but I saw it as a chance for a new beginning.”
Shelvey, now 33, says he’s focused on enjoying football again rather than chasing fame or money. “I’ve had my time. Now it’s about being happy, playing football, and spending time with my family,” he said.
‘I Wouldn’t Wear a Watch in London Anymore’
The London-born midfielder admitted he no longer feels comfortable in his hometown, citing safety concerns and social tensions.
“If I’m honest, I don’t want my kids growing up in England anymore,” Shelvey explained. “You can’t have nice things where I’m from. I’d never wear a watch in London now — you can’t even take your phone out.”
Although police statistics show robbery and theft are down in London this year, Shelvey believes the country has changed. “The UK isn’t what it was 10 or 15 years ago,” he added.
Shelvey’s Love for Newcastle United
Despite leaving the UK, Shelvey still holds a deep affection for Newcastle United, where he spent seven years and even wore the captain’s armband.
“Newcastle is the only place in the UK I’d want to live,” he said. “People ask if Newcastle can attract big players — trust me, once you go there, you understand what the club means. I found real love there.”
Shelvey helped the Magpies secure promotion back to the Premier League in 2017 and played a vital role in keeping the club in the top flight. He recalled scoring a “massive” goal against Leeds United that helped turn Newcastle’s fortunes under Eddie Howe.
“I’ve only got good things to say about my time there,” Shelvey said. “I loved every minute.”
Looking Ahead: Coaching and Life After Football
Now based in Dubai, Shelvey is combining his playing duties with coaching as he works towards his UEFA A Licence. Although a member of Howe’s coaching staff encouraged him to reach out for advice, Shelvey says he wants to earn his opportunities on merit.
“I don’t want to rely on who I know,” he said. “I’m training in the mornings and coaching in the evenings. While I still feel fit and strong, I’ll keep going. But if I got a bad injury now, that might be it.”
Shelvey also plays alongside Ravel Morrison, another former Premier League talent, and believes several UAE-based players could succeed in England’s League One or League Two.
From Premier League to the UAE: Shelvey’s Next Chapter
Jonjo Shelvey’s career has taken him from Liverpool, Swansea City, and Newcastle United to a new challenge in Dubai’s lower leagues. While his viral penalty miss drew headlines, his focus is clearly elsewhere — on enjoying the game, embracing family life, and helping develop football in the UAE.
“I’ve had my time at the top,” he said. “Now it’s about happiness and giving something back.”
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