Ex-Arsenal Star Rejoins First-Team Training
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, a former Arsenal player, is currently training at Arsenal’s London Colney facility. He has been seen training with both the youth teams and the senior squad as he aims to maintain his fitness. This return to training was highlighted during Arsenal’s recent open session.
Progression from Youth to First Team Training
Recently, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain joined the first team during a closed session that followed the media event. Photos from the training, shared by Arsenal’s photographer David Price, captured him participating in drills alongside players like Eberechi Eze.
Interestingly, Oxlade-Chamberlain wore a kit bearing the label ‘T3,’ which typically signifies a trialist. This choice likely indicates his motivation to push himself further by competing against more experienced teammates. Mikel Arteta has previously acknowledged the positive influence Oxlade-Chamberlain has on younger players, suggesting that his ongoing presence is beneficial.
Current Status and Future Possibilities
Oxlade-Chamberlain is presently a free agent after his contract with Turkish club Besiktas was terminated in August. Though he has received numerous offers from clubs across Europe, he prefers to stay in England with his family. His time training at Arsenal has offered the club an opportunity to assess his readiness for competitive play.
Personal Insights
In recent statements, Oxlade-Chamberlain expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to train with Arsenal, emphasizing his desire to contribute to the development of younger players. He spoke positively about the encouragement received from Arteta, who referred to him as “one of the best characters” in football.
- Oxlade-Chamberlain has trained with Arsenal’s youth teams and senior squad.
- He is a free agent, having last played for Besiktas.
- He aims to find a new club in England while training at Arsenal.
As Arsenal evaluates their squad depth, the possibility remains open for Oxlade-Chamberlain to rejoin the club should the need arise. His extensive experience and contributions to training could provide valuable support to the squad moving forward.
