Former Liverpool midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is poised for a return to competitive football with Scottish Premiership side Glasgow Celtic, according to recent reports. The move, expected to be a six-month contract extending until the end of the current season, marks a new chapter for the 32-year-old after a period of uncertainty following his departure from Anfield.
Oxlade-Chamberlain’s journey to Celtic comes after a spell training with his former club, Arsenal. This period of preparation was undertaken as he sought a new club following his release from Liverpool in the summer of 2023. His subsequent move to Turkish side Beşiktaş didn’t pan out as hoped. He found himself frozen out by then-Besiktas manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst – now an assistant coach at Liverpool – and didn’t feature regularly until December. His contract with the Turkish club was mutually terminated at the end of August, leaving him a free agent.
The midfielder’s career has seen him grace some of the biggest stages in European football. Rising to prominence with Southampton during the 2010-11 season, the then-teenager quickly attracted attention from top clubs. He ultimately joined Arsenal in August 2011, where he spent six seasons, making 198 appearances and scoring 20 goals across all competitions. During his time with the Gunners, he secured three FA Cup titles and notably became the youngest English goalscorer in UEFA Champions League history.
In August 2017, Oxlade-Chamberlain made a high-profile move to Liverpool, joining Jürgen Klopp’s squad. He became an integral part of a successful period for the club, contributing to their Champions League triumph in 2018-19 and their Premier League title win in 2019-20. Across his six years at Liverpool, he made 103 league appearances, scoring 11 goals.
Internationally, Oxlade-Chamberlain has represented England at various youth levels, from under-18 to under-21, before earning 35 senior caps and scoring seven goals. He made his debut for the senior national team in May 2012 and was a surprise inclusion in the England squad for UEFA Euro 2012, becoming the second-youngest player to ever represent England in the European Championships.
Celtic’s acquisition of Oxlade-Chamberlain represents a significant addition to their squad as they continue to compete for domestic honors and strive for success in European competitions. The Scottish giants, known for their passionate fanbase and rich history, will provide a familiar and vibrant atmosphere for the experienced midfielder.
The connection between Liverpool and Celtic is well-documented, with a shared history and a strong supporter base overlap. This shared affinity is not lost on those who have followed Oxlade-Chamberlain’s career. The sentiment expressed by one observer – “I’m always going to hope for the best for a member of those great Klopp teams and it’s nice to see Ox heading to a club like Celtic that shares so much in common with Liverpool. All the best, Alex, YNWA” – encapsulates the positive feeling surrounding this move.
While his time at Beşiktaş was ultimately unsuccessful, the opportunity to reignite his career at Celtic offers Oxlade-Chamberlain a chance to showcase his talent and contribute to a club with a winning tradition. His versatility and experience will be valuable assets for Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers as they navigate a demanding season. The six-month contract provides a platform for Oxlade-Chamberlain to prove his fitness and form, potentially leading to a longer-term stay in Glasgow.
The move also raises questions about Oxlade-Chamberlain’s long-term career aspirations. At 32, he is entering the twilight of his playing days, but a successful stint at Celtic could open doors to further opportunities, either in Europe or potentially even a return to the English Premier League. For now, however, his focus will be on making a positive impact at Celtic Park and helping the club achieve its goals.
Celtic currently sit at the top of the Scottish Premiership table, and Oxlade-Chamberlain’s arrival is expected to bolster their midfield options. His ability to drive forward, create chances, and contribute defensively will be crucial as they look to maintain their position and secure the league title. The Scottish Premiership is currently dominated by Celtic and Rangers, and Oxlade-Chamberlain will be expected to contribute immediately to Celtic’s continued success.
The transfer window closed on , and this move represents one of the later signings of the window. The fact that Arsenal were reportedly open to a move for Oxlade-Chamberlain, as reported on , highlights the continued respect for his abilities within the English game. However, This proves Celtic who have secured his services, adding a proven performer to their ranks.
