The midfielder is on the verge of a free transfer to Parkhead and Arsenal boss Arteta has spoken out
22:08, 06 Feb 2026Updated 22:09, 06 Feb 2026
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(Image: Getty Images)
'Brilliant' Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has been given a touching sendoff from Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta as he gets set to seal his move to Celtic.
The experienced midfielder is set to undergo his medical tomorrow ahead of a move to Parkhead that will be a major boost to Martin O'Neill's options.
The Hoops boss has made no secret of the fact the deal is close and is happy to green-light a deal even though it's missed the deadline to include him in Celtic's European squad for the remainder of the season.
The 32-year-old had been training with his former club Arsenal, who are managed by his former teammate Arteta. There were suggestions he could be offered a short-term deal there and further reports claimed Arteta is keen to offer him a coaching position once he decides to hang up his boots.
That won't be happening any time soon though and speaking at his press conference earlier today, Arteta wished the playmaker all the best for his move north.
"He’s been brilliant, it's been great to share some time with him, his experiences," the Spaniard said.
"Obviously we played together as well, so some great memories. It's been really helpful to us.
MADRID, SPAIN - APRIL 16: Mikel Arteta, head coach of Arsenal FC looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Quarter Final Second Leg match between Real Madrid C.F. and Arsenal FC at Santiago Bernabeu stadium on April 16, 2025, in Madrid, Spain. (Photo By Oscar J. Barroso/Europa Press via Getty Images)
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Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta (Image: Oscar J. Barroso/Europa Press via Getty Images)
"Hopefully we could help him and support him in that tough period for him and wish him all the very best whatever he decides to do."
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