Once regarded as one of the most explosive midfielders in the Premier League — all driving runs, incisive passes, and perfectly timed arrivals in the box — Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s career has taken some unexpected detours. For many supporters, the “Ox” seemed to drift out of the spotlight. But his current situation has captured attention again, and not in the way most would have imagined. Here’s a look at how his career path has shifted, the sharp turns along the way, and the surprising position he finds himself in today.
From Elite Clubs to a New Challenge: The Journey So Far
To understand where he stands now, it’s worth remembering how far he’s come. After emerging from Southampton’s academy, Oxlade-Chamberlain joined Arsenal in 2011 and quickly developed into a dynamic, flexible midfielder. His switch to Liverpool in 2017 brought trophies and memorable moments — including Premier League and Champions League triumphs.
But persistent injuries and fluctuating form became recurring hurdles. When his Liverpool contract expired in 2023, he opted for a fresh start with BeĹźiktaĹź in Turkey. His time there, however, was marked by long spells out through injury and periods where he found himself out of favour under different managers.
Eventually, both parties agreed to part ways, reportedly with a compensation package of around ÂŁ1.2 million, leaving him without a club heading into late August 2025.
The Unexpected Turn: Training… Back at Arsenal
Here’s where things take an unexpected turn: despite being a free agent, Oxlade-Chamberlain is currently training with Arsenal — the club he left years earlier.
According to various reports, the arrangement is simply to help him maintain fitness, likely involving sessions with academy or reserve groups rather than the first team. While this isn’t thought to signal an impending contract, it mirrors situations where clubs have allowed former players to use their facilities while they search for their next opportunity.
What This Says — and What Could Come Next
This development highlights several realities about his current stage of career:
A career in limbo: The contrast between his peak years and his present situation is striking.
A sign of the times: Even well-known players can struggle to secure moves later in their careers, especially after injury setbacks.
Possible next destinations: Rumours — though not confirmed — have linked him with interest from Championship sides or lower-tier English clubs.
Nostalgia factor: For Arsenal supporters, the sight of Oxlade-Chamberlain back at the training ground carries emotional weight, even if it’s only temporary.
Legacy on shifting ground: His later years have not matched the trajectory many expected when he was in his prime.
A Humbling Chapter — but Not the End
Football careers rarely follow a smooth, upward line. Oxlade-Chamberlain’s current crossroads is a humbling moment — a reminder of how quickly circumstances can change. Training at Arsenal without a contract may seem surprising for someone who once shone on Champions League nights, but it also reflects his commitment: staying sharp, staying professional, and staying prepared.
What happens next is uncertain — a return to English football, a move overseas, or even the beginning of a transition into life beyond the pitch. But one thing’s clear: very few imagined his story would look like this in 2025.
