Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain Explains Surprise Celtic Move After Leaving Arsenal
Former Arsenal and Liverpool star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has signed a short-term deal with Scottish giants Celtic, following a period of training with the north London side. The 32-year-old midfielder, who had been without a club since leaving Turkish team Besiktas in the summer, has put pen to paper on a contract until the end of the season, with an option for an additional campaign.
'A Perfect Fit' for the Midfielder
Oxlade-Chamberlain expressed his delight at the move, stating that Celtic felt like a 'perfect fit' after discussions with manager Martin O'Neill and assistant Shaun Maloney. 'It's been a busy few days but I'm delighted and really excited,' he said. 'Speaking with the manager, it just felt like the perfect fit for me and I feel like I can come in and help out the lads.'
He emphasized the club's expectations and targets, noting that the environment aligns with his own ambitions. 'That's all the stuff I identify with and that's the environment I've always been in and been lucky enough to be in. It's exactly what I need. I need another challenge and lucky enough at a massive club like this.'
Celtic Boss Martin O'Neill Welcomes the Signing
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill praised the acquisition, highlighting Oxlade-Chamberlain's experience and ability. 'We are really pleased to bring Alex to Celtic. He still has so much to offer the game, and I am sure he can add another dimension to us with his great ability and wealth of experience in the game,' O'Neill said.
He added, 'Above all, he is passionate and excited about this move himself so we are welcoming a great player who is hungry to help us achieve as much as we can.'
Background and Career Highlights
Oxlade-Chamberlain joins a Celtic side currently sitting third in the Scottish Premiership, six points behind leaders Hearts, albeit with a game in hand. His move marks a return to football after several months without a club, during which he trained with Arsenal to maintain fitness.
The midfielder's career includes:
- Six years at Arsenal after joining from Southampton in 2011, making 198 appearances.
- A subsequent move to Liverpool, where he added to his trophy cabinet.
- 35 caps for the England national team, with his last appearance in 2019.
This transfer represents a significant step for Oxlade-Chamberlain as he seeks to reignite his career at a top club, while Celtic aim to bolster their squad for a push up the league table.
