Arsenal vs Southampton Preview
- Arsenal to win
- Trossard to score or assist
Arsenal’s Unbeaten Run and Pursuit of the Top Spot
Arsenal are in sensational form, having beaten PSG 2-0 in the UEFA Champions League after a thrilling 4-2 Premier League victory over Leicester last weekend.
Manager Mikel Arteta is “super happy” with his team’s performances, and now the Gunners will look to close the gap on league leaders Liverpool and Manchester City. Despite remaining unbeaten this season (W4, D2), Arsenal are still chasing the top of the table.
History is firmly on Arsenal’s side as they face Southampton, a side they haven’t lost to at home in top-flight action since 1987 (W19, D9). An active 40-match unbeaten run against promoted sides at the Emirates Stadium (W35, D5) adds to the home crowd’s confidence.
Arsenal’s impressive defensive record is another reason for optimism; they boast 17 clean sheets across all competitions in 2024—the most among Europe’s top-five leagues.
Southampton’s Struggles and Quest for Improvement
Southampton head into this match in a difficult spot, reeling from a 3-1 defeat to rivals Bournemouth on Monday night. The Saints are enduring their joint-worst six-game start to a top-flight campaign (D1, L5), with only Wolves below them in the table.
Manager Russell Martin expressed dismay at his side’s performance, stating that he “didn’t recognize” his team, and he faces pressure to make changes to reverse their fortunes.
Southampton‘s away form has been especially concerning, suffering six consecutive road defeats in the Premier League and conceding at least three times in five of those games.
While their most recent away point came in a thrilling 3-3 draw at Arsenal in April 2023, their chances look slim given their defensive vulnerabilities.
That said, the Saints have found the net in their last four competitive away matches (W2, L2), showing they carry a goal threat.
Key Players to Watch
Leandro Trossard (Arsenal)
Fresh from suspension, Trossard has made a direct contribution in each of his last two games (G1, A1).
Arsenal have won all of his last 12 league games in which he has scored, with nine of those victories coming without conceding a goal. His creativity and goal-scoring ability will be vital for Arsenal’s attack.
Taylor Harwood-Bellis (Southampton)
Southampton’s center-back will have to be on his toes to handle Arsenal’s set-piece prowess. However, Harwood-Bellis is also a threat going forward, having scored four of his last five senior goals via headers.
His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively could be key for Southampton in this match.
Arsenal’s Home Dominance vs Southampton’s Away Struggles
- Arsenal’s dominance against Southampton: The Gunners haven’t lost a top-flight home game against the Saints since 1987 (W19, D9).
- Arsenal’s streak against promoted sides: Unbeaten in 40 home matches against promoted sides (W35, D5).
- Southampton’s away struggles: Six consecutive away defeats in the Premier League, conceding at least three goals in five of those games.
Hot Streak
Arsenal haven’t trailed at half-time in a home Premier League game so far this calendar year, indicating their strong starts and solid defensive play early in matches.
Conclusion
Arsenal’s strong form, dominant home record against promoted sides, and impeccable defence make them heavy favourites against a struggling Southampton.
The Saints will look to break their away losing streak and cause an upset, but they will have to be much sharper defensively to have any hope of halting Arsenal’s momentum. Expect the Gunners to capitalise on their confidence and maintain their unbeaten run.
Prediction: Arsenal to secure a comfortable victory and keep a clean sheet, with Southampton potentially struggling to keep up with the Gunners’ pace and firepower.
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