Mikel Arteta speaks of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain with a reverence usually reserved for legendary figures, describing him as possessing one of the finest characters he’s encountered in the world of football. The Arsenal manager clearly believes the veteran midfielder brings more than just a skillset to the training ground.
Oxlade-Chamberlain is currently training with Arsenal, a familiar environment for a player who first captivated fans there over a decade ago. His return isn’t about immediate game time, but about regaining fitness and sharpness, with Arteta hoping to provide a platform for him to secure his next move.
The midfielder’s journey has been remarkable, beginning with a promising start at Southampton before blossoming into a key player for the Gunners. During his time at Arsenal, he amassed 198 appearances, contributing 20 goals and lifting three FA Cup trophies.
A significant £35 million transfer took him to Liverpool in 2017, where he added a Premier League title and a Champions League medal to his collection across 146 appearances. He became a vital component of Jurgen Klopp’s dynamic midfield.
His recent spell with Besiktas, though productive with 50 appearances and a Turkish Cup win, ended with a contract termination in August. This unexpected turn of events left the experienced player searching for a new challenge.
Rumors of a return to Southampton, his original club, and a potential move to Birmingham City surfaced over the summer, but ultimately failed to materialize. The uncertainty surrounding his future underscores the competitive nature of modern football.
Arteta believes that even training alongside the Premier League leaders will showcase Oxlade-Chamberlain’s quality and dedication, potentially attracting interest from clubs eager to benefit from his experience and leadership. He’s a role model, Arteta insists, a player young professionals can learn from.
The 35-cap England international now finds himself in a unique position, leveraging his past achievements and unwavering character to reignite his career. His presence at Arsenal is a testament to his enduring professionalism and the respect he commands within the game.
