Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has returned to train at Arsenal’s facilities in London Colney, marking an unexpected development for the former midfielder. The 30-year-old is currently a free agent following the mutual termination of his contract with Turkish club Besiktas. His training at Arsenal is intended to help him maintain fitness as he seeks a new club.
Training with Tradition
Oxlade-Chamberlain’s presence at Arsenal reflects a tradition established by former manager Arsène Wenger, who allowed past players to use the club’s training grounds while looking for new opportunities. Current Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta continues this practice, providing a supportive environment for players like Oxlade-Chamberlain. Reports indicate that he is primarily training with the club’s younger age groups, as the first team prepares for an upcoming match against Slavia Prague in the UEFA Champions League.
The midfielder joined Arsenal in 2011 from Southampton and enjoyed a successful six-year spell at the club. During his time with the Gunners, he made 200 appearances, scoring 35 goals and earning 35 international caps for England. His tenure at Arsenal was marked by significant contributions, including an FA Cup victory in 2014.
Recent Career Challenges
After leaving Arsenal in 2017, Oxlade-Chamberlain signed with Liverpool, where he achieved notable success, including winning the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League in 2020. However, injuries plagued his time at Liverpool, limiting his appearances and impacting his form. He later joined Besiktas, where he faced further challenges due to fitness issues.
In the summer of 2023, with one year remaining on his contract, Oxlade-Chamberlain and Besiktas agreed to terminate the deal mutually. The Turkish club, under the management of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, reportedly compensated him with £1.5 million (approximately $2 million) for the early termination.
As he trains at Arsenal, Oxlade-Chamberlain aims to regain his fitness and explore potential opportunities in the football market. His experience and talent could make him a valuable asset for clubs looking to strengthen their squads in the upcoming transfer window.
