Arsenal look to finish strong as Southampton bow out of Premier League | OneFootball

Southampton v Arsenal: Final Day Formalities with a Flicker of Risk

Gunners conclude campaign with pride and precision in focus

For all the grand narratives that have unfolded across this Premier League season, Arsenal’s visit to Southampton on the final day now feels more like a footnote than a headline. Champions League qualification secured, second place all but confirmed, and little on the line beyond rhythm and reputation. And yet, as always in this league, context shifts quickly.

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Mikel Arteta’s side enter the final match with just enough mathematical doubt to maintain a trace of tension. Technically, a nine-goal swing in Manchester City’s favour could see Arsenal drop to third. It is improbable, yes, but not impossible — and that, in Premier League terms, is usually enough to keep attention sharp.

Southampton’s farewell to the elite

Southampton, by contrast, are preparing for their Premier League exit. Rooted to the bottom of the table, they avoided ignominy of historic proportion by holding Manchester City to a goalless draw in their last home match, a result that granted them a minor moral victory in a season largely devoid of them.

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There remains pride to play for, and in front of a home crowd at St Mary’s, that sense of occasion still matters. It is unlikely to be enough, but it will be something — a last opportunity to disrupt the structure before disappearing into the second tier.

Arsenal navigate depth challenges and rotation

Injuries are again a theme for Arsenal. Mikel Arteta confirmed that William Saliba and Jurrien Timber will miss out, joining Gabriel Magalhaes, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Gabriel Jesus on the sidelines. That opens the door for Riccardo Calafiori to feature alongside Jakub Kiwior, with Mikel Merino available again following suspension.

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Aaron Ramsdale, likely starting against his former club, will be eager to prove a point. On the other end, David Raya has his own subplot, chasing a share of the Premier League Golden Glove. Against a Southampton side that hasn’t scored in their last three matches, he will quietly fancy his chances.

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Prediction: Formality with flashes of fluidity

This is a match in which Arsenal, for once, are playing without pressure. That in itself could foster a performance of freedom, the kind of expression rarely permitted during the intensity of a title chase. There is also an opportunity to end the campaign with clarity — not just in league position but in tone.

Southampton may resist for periods, as they did against City, but their attacking frailties are laid bare. Arsenal should find enough to move through the gears and complete the job, even if it is a muted finale to a season that once promised more.

Arsenal to win, 2-0