Arsenal return to FA Cup action on Saturday with a tricky quarter-final trip to St Mary’s, where a confident Southampton side stands between them and another Wembley appearance.
For Arsenal, the dream of a historic quadruple is already over after their EFL Cup final defeat to Manchester City. Mikel Arteta’s side delivered a blunt attacking display at Wembley, missing key creative outlets and struggling to break down City’s defence.
However, their season is far from derailed. Arsenal remain firmly in control of the Premier League title race and have a favourable UEFA Champions League quarter-final tie ahead. The FA Cup now offers a realistic path to silverware, and history is on their side—whenever the Gunners reach the semi-finals, they tend to go all the way.
Their fifth-round win over Mansfield Town was far from convincing, but it got the job done. Now, with momentum slightly dented and injuries piling up, this fixture represents both a test of squad depth and mental resilience.
Meanwhile, Southampton are enjoying a resurgence. The Championship side are the last remaining team from outside the Premier League still competing at this stage, and they are embracing the underdog role with confidence.
Under Tonda Eckert, Southampton have built serious momentum. They edged past Fulham in the previous round and are currently on a remarkable 14-game unbeaten run in all competitions, winning 11 of those matches. Their recent league form has also boosted their promotion hopes, adding further belief ahead of this clash.
Historically, Southampton have not lifted the FA Cup since 1976, and a deep run this season would be monumental for the club. They also have recent positive memories against Arsenal at St Mary’s, including eliminating them from the competition in 2021.
Team News
Arsenal’s biggest concern is availability. A significant number of first-team players withdrew from international duty, including Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes. Creative spark Eberechi Eze is also unavailable, while captain Martin Odegaard remains a doubt.Given the upcoming European fixture, Arteta may rotate heavily. That could open the door for teenage sensation Max Dowman to start, while Kepa Arrizabalaga is expected to retain his place in goal.
Southampton are also dealing with setbacks. Flynn Downes and Kuryu Matsuki are suspended, while captain Jack Stephens is sidelined with injury. Long-term absentees include Mads Roerslev, and several others remain doubtful.
Possible Lineups
Southampton (4-2-3-1):Peretz; Bree, Wood, Harwood-Bellis, Manning; Jander, Romeu; Fellows, Azaz, Edozie; Stewart
Arsenal (4-3-3):
Kepa; White, Salmon, Mosquera, Calafiori; Havertz, Norgaard, Lewis-Skelly; Dowman, Gyokeres, Jesus
Expert Prediction
Southampton 1-2 Arsenal
