Arsenal vs Southampton: Pre-Match Analysis Ahead of Premier League Clash

Southampton‘s arrival at Arsenal this Saturday marks the end of an intense run for the Gunners, who have been maintaining an impressive unbeaten streak for the past 15 games. The history between these two sides strongly favors Arsenal, who have never lost to Southampton in 24 previous Premier League encounters at their home ground, making it a record in the competition for the most matches against a single opponent without defeat at home.

Southampton, still in search of their first top-flight victory in 20 matches since their promotion, are struggling at the bottom of the league table due to their inferior goal difference compared to Wolves. The team’s recent performance includes narrow defeats to Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest, followed by more significant losses to Brentford, Manchester United, and Bournemouth.

This Saturday’s match comes with concerning statistics for Southampton, showing an xG (expected goals) indicating that they should have scored nearly five more goals than their current total of three. Their shot conversion rate stands at a league-low of 4.4%. However, they have shown some promise in the League Cup, progressing after a 5-3 win over Cardiff City and defeating Everton on penalties.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating, “We know the quality of Southampton, and they’re extremely well coached. It’s a team with a clear philosophy, and they’ve been unlucky in not collecting more points.”

Southampton manager Russell Martin complimented Arteta’s progress with Arsenal, expressing that “with perseverance and patience, they have developed a clear style. We need to ensure we become tough to play against and establish a more defined approach.”

Arsenal faces potential injuries as Jurrien Timber, Ben White, and Takehiro Tomiyasu are being assessed ahead of the match. Oleksandr Zinchenko is expected to return from a calf injury after the international break, but Martin Odegaard remains without a timeline for his ankle injury recovery. Meanwhile, Southampton will miss Gavin Bazunu, Kamaldeen Sulemana, and Will Smallbone due to injuries, with Jack Stephens serving a suspension.

The referee Tony Harrington will officiate his first Arsenal game this Saturday, having refereed Southampton three times, resulting in one win, one draw, and one loss for the team.

Arsenal aims to maintain its strong home record against promoted teams and achieve their 400th home win in the Premier League, potentially becoming the second team to reach this milestone after Manchester United. Coincidentally, Kai Havertz could make history by scoring in his seventh consecutive home game, a record matched only by club legends Robin Van Persie and Emmanuel Adebayor.