A familiar face could soon return to the Emirates — not as a player, but as part of Arsenal’s future leadership.
Mikel Arteta Planning Arsenal Return for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain — Former Gunners Star Could Join Coaching Staff
A surprising reunion could soon take place at the Emirates Stadium.
According to reports, Mikel Arteta is interested in bringing former Arsenal midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain back to the club — this time as a coach. The move would signal another step in Arsenal’s long-term strategy of reconnecting the club with players who understand its culture and identity.
While Oxlade-Chamberlain’s playing career may not yet be finished, preparations for life after football are already underway.
And Arteta appears eager to make him part of Arsenal’s future.
Oxlade-Chamberlain Preparing for Coaching Career
The former England international has recently been taking important steps toward becoming a professional coach.
Reports indicate that the 32-year-old is currently completing his UEFA B coaching licence, with several of his training sessions taking place at Arsenal’s training facilities.
During this process, Oxlade-Chamberlain has also spent time working with Arsenal’s Under-21 squad, helping him maintain match fitness while continuing to learn the tactical and analytical aspects of coaching.
For many former players, this stage marks the transition from the pitch to the technical area.
And Arsenal may already be positioning themselves to bring him back.
Arteta’s Personal Connection
One of the key reasons behind the potential move is the relationship between Mikel Arteta and Oxlade-Chamberlain.
The two players shared a dressing room during Arteta’s final years as an Arsenal player between 2014 and 2016.
During that period, they developed a strong professional bond.
Arteta has always placed enormous value on trust and shared understanding within his coaching structure. Many members of his current staff either played at the club or have long-standing connections with Arsenal’s football philosophy.
Oxlade-Chamberlain fits that profile perfectly.
The midfielder spent six years at Arsenal, making 198 appearances and becoming one of the most recognizable players of that era.
Bringing him back into the coaching structure would therefore represent both a personal reunion and a symbolic return.
What Role Could He Play?
At this stage, Oxlade-Chamberlain’s UEFA B licence would allow him to coach youth teams, most likely within Arsenal’s academy structure.
Possible roles could include:
Working with the Under-18 squad
Assisting with the Under-19 development programme
Supporting young midfielders transitioning into senior football
Arsenal have placed enormous emphasis on youth development in recent years, producing talents such as Bukayo Saka, Ethan Nwaneri, and other emerging academy stars.
Former players often play a crucial role in mentoring the next generation.
Oxlade-Chamberlain’s experience at both Arsenal and Liverpool — where he won the Champions League — could offer valuable insights for young prospects.
His Playing Career Isn’t Over Yet
Despite the coaching discussions, Oxlade-Chamberlain has not officially retired from professional football.
Since leaving Besiktas in August, the midfielder has been a free agent and has been exploring opportunities to continue playing.
Reports suggest he is currently in advanced talks with Celtic, which could see him extend his career in Scotland.
If that move materializes, any coaching role with Arsenal would likely happen later, once he decides to step away from playing.
Still, Arteta’s interest shows that the club is already thinking ahead.
Arsenal’s Tradition of Bringing Back Former Players
Arsenal have often welcomed former players into coaching or leadership roles.
Clubs with strong identities frequently rely on individuals who understand the culture, expectations, and history of the institution.
Arteta himself is a perfect example.
After finishing his playing career, he built coaching experience under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City before returning to Arsenal as manager.
If Oxlade-Chamberlain eventually follows a similar path, he could become another link between Arsenal’s past and future.
A Reunion That Fans May Welcome
For many Arsenal supporters, Oxlade-Chamberlain remains a memorable figure from the club’s previous era.
His pace, energy, and attacking flair made him a fan favorite during his time in North London.
While his career later took him to Liverpool and then abroad, a return to Arsenal — even in a coaching capacity — would likely be warmly received by many fans.
And for Arteta, the move would reinforce a key principle behind his project.
Building a club culture rooted in shared experience, trust, and identity.
If the plan eventually comes to life, Oxlade-Chamberlain could soon be helping guide the next generation of Arsenal talent.
Not from the wing.
But from the touchline.
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