As the 2024/25 Premier League season draws to a close, Arsenal travel to face a struggling Southampton side at St. Mary’s Stadium on May 25, aiming to finish their campaign on a high note. While the Gunners prepare for Champions League football next season, the Saints are resigned to a fresh start in the Championship after a disappointing season marred by poor performances.
Southampton’s Season of Struggles
Southampton’s relegation was all but confirmed weeks ago, with the team failing to adapt to the demands of top-flight football. Securing just two wins throughout the season, they have been the weakest outfit statistically, boasting the poorest attack and most vulnerable defense in the league. Their recent 2-0 defeat to Everton encapsulated a campaign to forget, marking their third consecutive match without a goal.
Arsenal Secure European Ambitions
On the other side, Arsenal enter this clash with a sense of bittersweet satisfaction. While they fell short of the Premier League title after an extended stay at the top, Mikel Arteta’s side clinched a Champions League berth with a narrow 1-0 win over Newcastle in Round 37. Despite fresh injury concerns sidelining key defenders like William Saliba and Jurrien Timber, Arsenal remain a formidable unit, especially against weaker opposition.
Head-to-Head Snapshot and Match Insights
In the reverse fixture, Arsenal emerged 3-1 victors, and the recent history between the two clubs favors the London side, with two wins, two draws, and just one defeat in their last five encounters with the Saints.
When it comes to goal trends, Southampton matches average nearly 3 goals per game, while Arsenal’s average is slightly less at 2.7. Arsenal have found the net at an average of 1.81 goals per match this season, in stark contrast to Southampton, who concede an alarming 2.27 per game.
Leandro Trossard has been in fine form recently, contributing four goals in his last seven outings, making him a player to watch in this fixture.
Prediction and Betting Insights
Despite both teams seeking a positive end to their season, the gulf in quality is undeniable. Arsenal have consistently dominated lower-ranked teams, winning all of their seven matches against the league’s bottom four. Conversely, Southampton have struggled significantly against top-half teams, losing eight of nine such encounters.
- Arsenal to Win – 1.31
- Over 2.5 Goals – 1.45
- Arsenal to Score Over 1.5 Goals – 1.34
- Leandro Trossard to Score Anytime – 2.25
Predicted Scoreline: Southampton 1-3 Arsenal
