Southampton vs Arsenal 2025 marks the final chapter of a challenging yet reflective season for Mikel Arteta and his squad. Ahead of their trip to the south coast to face already-relegated Southampton, Arteta faced questions from the media surrounding transfers, team alignment, injuries, and the success of rivals Tottenham Hotspur, who just lifted the Europa League trophy.
While Arsenal will end the season without silverware, Arteta pushed back against the simplistic idea that trophies are the only measure of success. He insisted that deeper alignment, progress, and squad development are key markers of Arsenal’s journey.
Arteta on Alignment, Randomness, and Future Goals
The Arsenal boss expressed a need for unity across all levels of the club to mount a successful title challenge in 2025/26. While optimistic, he acknowledged the unpredictable nature of football:
“There is a lot of randomness in football. What we can control, we’ll give everything for — but the rest requires belief and alignment.” — Mikel Arteta
Arteta noted that external factors like injuries, scheduling, and officiating all play a role, but said Arsenal are determined to create the conditions necessary to win.
Arteta Congratulates Spurs, Avoids Comparison
Following Tottenham’s Europa League triumph under Ange Postecoglou, Arteta was respectful and complimentary — but firm that Arsenal’s focus must stay inward:
“I just want to congratulate them. They overcame many obstacles. But I don’t compare with other teams — I analyse my own.” — Mikel Arteta
When asked whether Spurs’ success adds pressure, Arteta deflected the idea, reiterating that trophies don’t tell the full story of progress.
Injury Updates: Saliba & Timber
Arteta remained tight-lipped but hinted at caution with William Saliba and Jurrien Timber. Neither player is expected to be risked unless fully fit for the Southampton match.
Arsenal 2024/25 Player Stats
| Player | Appearances | Goals | Assists | xG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bukayo Saka | 36 | 15 | 9 | 13.2 |
| Martin Ødegaard | 34 | 10 | 8 | 8.7 |
Key Takeaways from Arteta's Press Conference
- Trophy ≠ Only Measure: Arteta warns against binary thinking in evaluating success.
- Praise for Spurs: He congratulated Postecoglou but avoided comparisons.
- Focus on Alignment: Arsenal are building a long-term plan, not chasing short-term optics.
- Injury Watch: Timber and Saliba will be assessed carefully before Sunday.
What’s Next?
Arsenal travel to Southampton for their final Premier League game of the 2024/25 season. With a Champions League spot already secured, focus will quickly shift to summer transfers and fine-tuning the squad for a renewed title push.
Has Arsenal underachieved this season—or are they building something special? Share your thoughts in the comments and follow us for full post-match coverage.
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