Horse Racing expert Will Smith is back with his next WhichBookie ante-post pick, and a 2-star ** 10/1 EW selection in Saturday's Betfred Temple Stakes at Haydock Park.
Date published: May 20, 2025
Southampton FC
v Arsenal FC 
Saint Mary's
Premier League Matchday 38 
25-05-2025 15:00
Southampton Form
Arsenal Form
Date: 25/05/25
Kick-off time: 16:00
Venue: St Mary’s Stadium
Arsenal make the trip to St Mary’s Stadium for their final Premier League fixture of the 2024/25 campaign, taking on a Southampton side whose season has been nothing short of catastrophic. This Southampton vs Arsenal preview examines what’s at stake for both teams. Mikel Arteta’s Gunners may find themselves needing a result to cement a top-four finish, while the Saints, already relegated, are simply playing for pride in front of their home fans. Kick-off is set for 4pm (UK time) on Sunday 25th May, and the contrast in mood between the two camps could not be starker.
In terms of Southampton vs Arsenal team news, the hosts are fortunate to have a fully fit squad ahead of this clash, although that fact has done little to lift their form across a dismal campaign. Ryan Fraser, Charlie Taylor and Albert Gronbaek may all be considered, having had slim chances of returning in time for the run-in, but their inclusion would represent minor tweaks to a squad that’s failed to deliver.
Arsenal, however, are navigating a cluster of injury concerns that have impacted their season’s climax. Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Magalhaes, and Takehiro Tomiyasu have all been ruled out for the remainder of the campaign, depriving Arteta of key figures across defence and attack.
Mikel Merino returns from suspension and is expected to lead the line at St Mary’s in what could be a crucial fixture for Champions League qualification. Midfield dynamo Declan Rice is likely to feature after recovering from a hamstring issue, while Leandro Trossard faces a late fitness test following a thigh strain. Kai Havertz has resumed full training and could be included in the matchday squad, though Arteta may hesitate to risk him from the start. Expect Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli to flank the attack as Arsenal aim to end their season on a high.
This fixture is primed for a statement performance from the visitors. For those seeking Southampton vs Arsenal betting tips, backing Bukayo Saka to score anytime offers value. The England international has netted in each of his last two appearances against Southampton, taking his career tally to three goals versus the Saints. With Saka eager to finish a frustrating season on a high, he will be central to Arsenal’s attacking output.
A penalty in the match also looks likely. Southampton have conceded a league-high nine penalties this season, while Arsenal have also been guilty of defensive lapses in this area, having given away three themselves. With VAR never far from the spotlight on the final day, this market is well worth exploring.
Southampton have been outclassed all season long. They’ve collected just 12 points and have managed only two wins, signalling a near-guaranteed relegation long before the final whistle of the campaign. Backing Arsenal to win and over 2.5 goals could provide a strong return as the Gunners look to lock in Champions League football.
Our Southampton vs Arsenal prediction is a straightforward one: a comprehensive away victory. While Arsenal may have seen their title hopes dashed and a Champions League semi-final exit still lingering, the motivation to secure a top-four finish should drive a professional performance.
Southampton, meanwhile, have endured one of the most pitiful Premier League seasons on record. Their 28 defeats and -65 goal difference speak volumes. Arsenal, even with their inconsistencies, possess too much quality not to exploit a demoralised Saints side.
Expect the Gunners to control the tempo from the outset, pin Southampton back, and eventually break them down through sustained pressure. If Arteta’s side convert their early chances, as they failed to do in Paris, this could be a one-sided affair.
Match Prediction: Arsenal to win. Bet with bet365.
The Southampton vs Arsenal score prediction leans heavily towards a dominant Arsenal performance. A 3-0 away win is the standout correct score tip, given the disparity in quality and form.
Arsenal’s attack, spearheaded by Saka and Martinelli, should create more than enough chances against a Saints defence that has shipped 82 goals this season. Should Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard control the midfield, Arsenal will have the platform to repeatedly breach the Southampton back line.
The Gunners kept a clean sheet in their last meeting against the Saints, and with Southampton’s toothless frontline unlikely to threaten, a comfortable clean sheet for David Raya looks probable.
Correct Score Prediction: 3-0 to Arsenal. Bet with bet365.
For the Southampton vs Arsenal Over/Under goals prediction, the value lies in the Over 2.5 goals market. Southampton’s defensive record is the worst in the league, and Arsenal—despite their faltering form—have still managed to score 72 league goals this season.
This fixture rarely finishes goalless, with both teams typically producing open and fast-paced encounters. Given Southampton’s defensive vulnerability and Arsenal’s need to chase goal difference or points, this should be another high-scoring affair.
However, backing Under 3.5 goals may appeal to those anticipating a more composed Arsenal performance, managing the game professionally without excessive risk.
Over/Under Prediction: Under 3.5 Goals. Bet with bet365.
Our curated Southampton vs Arsenal Bet Builder tip combines high-value markets with strong supporting data:
Bukayo Saka to score anytime, Arsenal to win, and Penalty awarded in the match.
Saka’s recent form against Southampton and his drive to end the season positively make him a strong contender to find the net. Arsenal are overwhelming favourites to take the three points, while the Saints’ dreadful disciplinary record inside their own area suggests another penalty incident could be on the cards.
Bet Builder Tip: Bukayo Saka to score anytime, Arsenal to win, and Penalty awarded in the match. Bet with bet365.
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Horse Racing expert Will Smith is back with his next WhichBookie ante-post pick, and a 2-star ** 10/1 EW selection in Saturday's Betfred Temple Stakes at Haydock Park.
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