Former Arsenal midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has returned to the club’s training facilities at London Colney as he seeks to find a new team. The unexpected presence of the 30-year-old player was noted on Monday, following the conclusion of his contract with Turkish club Besiktas, which was mutually terminated. This move marks a significant moment in Oxlade-Chamberlain’s career as he looks to maintain his fitness ahead of potential opportunities.
Oxlade-Chamberlain’s training at Arsenal is not an indication of a return to the club, but rather a means to stay in shape while exploring new options. Mikel Arteta, the current Arsenal manager, has continued the tradition established by Arsène Wenger, welcoming former players back to utilize the club’s top-notch training facilities. It is reported that Oxlade-Chamberlain is primarily training with younger age groups, while the first team prepares for their upcoming match against Slavia Prague in the UEFA Champions League.
Career Overview and Recent Challenges
Oxlade-Chamberlain began his professional career at Southampton before moving to Arsenal in 2011, where he spent six years and made a substantial impact. During his time at Arsenal, he made 200 appearances, scoring 24 goals and earning 35 international caps for England. His contributions helped the club secure two FA Cup victories, solidifying his status as a key player.
In 2017, Oxlade-Chamberlain transferred to Liverpool for a fee reported to be around £35 million (approximately $45 million). He enjoyed considerable success at Liverpool, notably contributing to their victory in the 2020 UEFA Champions League. However, his performances were often hampered by injuries, which ultimately led to a challenging spell at Besiktas.
At Besiktas, Oxlade-Chamberlain’s time was marked by further injury setbacks. With one year remaining on his contract, he opted for a mutual termination, reportedly receiving £1.5 million (approximately $2 million) from the club to end their agreement. This decision has allowed him to focus on finding a new club where he can continue his professional career.
Looking Ahead
As Oxlade-Chamberlain trains at Arsenal, the club remains focused on their upcoming match against Slavia Prague on October 24, 2023. The return of the former midfielder highlights his ongoing dedication to the sport and his desire to remain competitive. Finding a new club will be crucial for Oxlade-Chamberlain as he aims to revive his career and contribute at a high level once again.
Overall, the situation emphasizes the challenges faced by professional athletes as they navigate injuries and transitions in their careers. Oxlade-Chamberlain’s training at Arsenal serves as both a reminder of his past successes and a stepping stone towards his future endeavors in football.
