Jonjo Shelvey stands by controversial Dubai comments
Jonjo Shelvey has refused to back down from his controversial assertion that he feels safer in Dubai than in London, despite Iranian missiles passing overhead and civilian deaths occurring in the UAE, reports BritPanorama.
The 34-year-old former England midfielder, who recently transitioned from player to manager at Arabian Falcons, relocated his family to the Gulf state last year. Since his arrival seven months ago, the region has experienced escalating conflict involving the USA, Israel, and Iran, with hundreds of injuries reported from missile and drone debris landing in populated areas.
Despite these tensions, Shelvey stated to SunSport, “I still stand by what I said. I am not changing my perspective.” He expressed a clear reluctance to raise his three children in London or Essex, his hometown, stating, “I wouldn’t want to bring my kids up back home… around London and Essex where I’m originally from.”
He acknowledged that while he does not wish to disparage his birthplace, he believes the area has changed significantly since his youth. “It wasn’t like that then. You could go out and be down the park or whatever with your mates or walk to the shops,” he reflected. Returning to the UK, he added, has not crossed his mind since making the move: “I would feel more unsafe walking around London than I would being out here with missiles flying over your head.”
Shelvey praised the Emirates for their crisis management, crediting authorities for ensuring that residents feel safe. He remarked, “I’m very content and happy out here and I would choose here over there any day of the week.” However, the UK government currently advises against all but essential travel to the UAE until the situation stabilizes.
This directive impacts Shelvey’s responsibilities with Arabian Falcons, who aim to attract talent from top European leagues to the UAE’s third division. Co-owner and former Premier League player Jason Puncheon is among those backing the club’s ambitions, which include qualifying for the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup.
Despite the ongoing tensions, Shelvey is optimistic about drawing players to the Gulf, stating, “The lifestyle it offers you is fantastic.” He believes many footballers are familiar with the region through holidays, and he is prepared to communicate the benefits of living and playing in Dubai. “If people are intrigued to come out here and play then all they need to do is reach out to me and I will tell them the truth,” he concluded.
In essence, Shelvey’s perspective highlights a divide in how personal safety and regional stability are perceived, reminding us how sports and life choices are often influenced by broader geopolitical realities.
