Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was released by Besiktas in August following a two-year spell with the Turkish giants and has been training with Arsenal’s under-21s to maintain his fitness
Free agent Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is targeting a return to the Premier League in the January transfer window. The former Arsenal, Liverpool and Southampton star had his contract with Besiktas terminated in August, having spent two years in Turkey.
Oxlade-Chamberlain, 32, is currently training with Arsenal’s under-21s, featuring in practice matches against Manchester United and Watford. The 35-time England international, whose last cap came more than six years ago, wants a top-flight move as soon as possible and believes that he can set an example for youngsters.
In an interview with the Athletic, Oxlade-Chamberlain affirmed: “I feel like I can add value on the pitch but also show the right way to train, the right way to act on and off the pitch.
“I’m in the bracket now where I’ve been lucky enough to play for top clubs, win things and work with top managers. I know a lot more now than I did when I started out.”
The midfielder is taking inspiration from Premier League veterans such as Brighton duo Danny Welbeck and James Milner, who he played alongside for England. Ex-Liverpool team-mate Jordan Henderson is also contributing for Brentford.
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“(They are) perfect example,” Oxlade-Chamberlain explained. “It shows you that, if you look after yourself and work hard, you can still be effective.
“And knowing Welbz, I just know the value that having him and James Milner – two very different characters – will bring to that dressing room in terms of the standards they set. In some aspects, I don’t feel any older than I did at Arsenal. I struggle to think of myself as 30.
“I’ve always thought you don’t retire before you’re 35, but I guess I’m into the business end of it now where you’ve got a lot more perspective on everything and you have a lot more reality thrown at you than when you’re 21. I want to play. I don’t feel old. I’m fit, and I’ve still got that hunger.”
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Mikel Arteta’s appraisal could help Oxlade-Chamberlain get what he wants after the Arsenal boss lauded his personality. “Top. Top character. One of the best characters I’ve met in football,” Arteta hailed.
“If we can help him and give him the space for him to get up to speed and have the capacity to find a club. It’s a joy, the boys will learn from it. I had the privilege to play with him and if he is around he will be a really good role model to have around the team.”
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Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL package
Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, saving members £192 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.
Sky will show at least 215 live Premier League games next season, an increase of up to 100 more.
