Wigan Athletic boss Ryan Lowe has shared his thoughts on Jack Wilshere’s appointment as Luton Town manager, outlining what he believes will be the biggest challenge facing the former Arsenal star as he begins his first full-time managerial role.
Luton turned to Wilshere after parting ways with Matt Bloomfield, hoping the 33-year-old can steady the ship and spark a revival following a turbulent few years.
The Hatters’ recent journey has been a rollercoaster — from the highs of Premier League promotion in 2023 under Rob Edwards, to the lows of back-to-back relegations that have now left them in League One. Bloomfield failed to halt the slide, and after an uninspiring start to the 2025/26 campaign, Luton decided once again to change direction.
For Wilshere, the job represents both a return and a new beginning. He began his footballing journey in Luton’s Centre of Excellence before joining Arsenal at the age of nine. Now, he comes back to the club with the task of rebuilding its fortunes and guiding them toward promotion.
Lowe: “Wilshere must learn to adapt”
Having navigated his own managerial path from player to coach, Lowe understands the hurdles Wilshere will face. Speaking to Sky Sports Football, the Wigan boss said the biggest key to success for Wilshere will be his ability to adjust to the unpredictable nature of League One football.
“The biggest thing for Jack will be to adapt in this division,” Lowe explained. “He’s had coaching experience in the Championship and a spell at Norwich, but League One is a completely different animal. He’ll come up against different styles, different players — not everyone will be able to play the way he wants.”
Lowe, who guided Bury and Plymouth Argyle to promotions earlier in his career, believes that flexibility will determine how quickly Wilshere settles into management.
“As a young coach, it’s all about learning to adapt. I’m sure he’ll do that — he’s got the right credentials and this is a great opportunity to take Luton back into the Championship. It’s a fantastic club, and I wish him all the best… until he plays us, of course,” he added with a smile.
A steep learning curve ahead
Wilshere steps into management with plenty of promise, shaped by years of learning under some of the most respected names in the game, including Arsène Wenger and Mikel Arteta. Their influence is expected to be evident in his footballing philosophy — but as Lowe hinted, translating ideas into results in League One will require more than tactical knowledge.
The young manager will face seasoned opponents, many with decades of experience in the dugout. Outmaneuvered moments are inevitable, but those will serve as vital lessons in his development.
Wilshere’s first season at Kenilworth Road will test his adaptability, resilience, and leadership — qualities that could ultimately define whether he succeeds in lifting Luton back toward the Championship, or becomes another young coach learning the hard way in the relentless world of English football.