I moved to live in the Emirates in search of safety

Former English star Jonjo Shelvey, who moved to play for the Arabian Falcons Club in the UAE’s second division league, confirmed that the safety he saw in the Emirates contributed to the decision to embark on a new experience in his career, stressing that it was not a search for money.
Shelvey, who previously played for clubs such as Newcastle United, Liverpool and Swansea City, told the British BBC that his decision was not related to money, pointing out that salaries in the UAE second-tier league are not high compared to what he achieved during his professional career, explaining that he receives a salary of up to two thousand pounds sterling per month (9,800 dirhams).
Shelvey explained that the motivation behind moving to the Emirates was a desire to start a new chapter with his family, and to provide a safe and appropriate environment to raise his children away from the pressures of life in England. He said: “I do not want my children to grow up in England. I do not feel that the place is the same as it was 10 to 15 years ago, but here in the Emirates, I can wear my watch normally, and hold my phone in public places without fear of theft.”
He explained: “On the other hand, we are very lucky because we live in a beautiful area in the United Kingdom, but in my opinion, you cannot have beautiful things where I am from, as I will not wear a watch in London and I cannot take my phone out of my pocket in London.”
The player indicated that he had not been practicing any football activity for a long time due to a back muscle injury after a failed experience with Hull City, before the director of the Arabian Falcons Club (his friend since childhood) contacted him to invite him to Dubai to help develop the club.
He added: “I signed an initial contract for one year, and I am currently participating in morning training, and practicing in the evening in preparation for obtaining a training license from the European Football Association later.”
As for his career, Shelvey expressed his great love for Newcastle United, stressing that his playing experience there was exceptional, especially the periods when he represented the team as interim captain, and his contribution to the club’s rise and maintaining its position in the English Premier League. He added that the goal he scored against Leeds United was a defining moment in the career of the club and coach Eddie Howe.
Regarding his current condition, Shelvey said that his body is no longer what it was before, and that each training session may be the last if he suffers a new injury, but he stressed his determination to continue as long as he feels strong and fit, enjoying football with his family in an environment completely different from England, considering that the UAE experience is an opportunity to enjoy football away from previous pressures.