Southampton fans could be heard attempting to wind up the Arsenal away support at St Mary’s by singing about their bitter rivals, Tottenham Hotspur.
It’s been a season of mixed emotions for the Gunners who have enjoyed a strong Champions League run and another Premier League title charge, but ultimately come up short in both competitions.
Down the road in N17, it’s been a similar case, with Tottenham Hotspur having had a torrid domestic campaign, but in Europe, they ended their long wait for silverware.
The Saints’ supporters were quick to remind the Arsenal players and supporters of that fact on an afternoon where spirits were high on the South Coast despite their relegation from the top flight.
Southampton goad Arsenal with Tottenham chants
Southampton fans could be heard chanting, “Tottenham Hotspur, they’ve won more than you,” to the Arsenal supporters in the away end. St Mary’s then attempted to wind them up even more by singing, “second again, allez, allez!”
The final day of the Premier League season is often spent by fans enjoying themselves and Southampton’s home support were certainly doing that by goading the away end.
Arsenal have now gone five years without a trophy and will have been frustrated not to have ended that wait this season. Next season, there is a sense of win or bust for Mikel Arteta’s project in North London with a busy summer window ahead.
Instead, they had to watch their neighbours, Tottenham, clinch their third Europa League title. Brennan Johnson’s goal against Manchester United in the final won the trophy for the Lilywhites and end their 17-year wait for a trophy.
Southampton’s Tottenham chants should motivate Mikel Arteta and Arsenal
Mikel Arteta and the Arsenal board need to use Spurs’ Europa League win and the Saints fans mocking them as motivation to ensure next season is different. The Gunners are so close to success, but are missing the final few pieces.
Arsenal are hoping to sign an elite-level striker this summer. Viktor Gyokeres appears to be Arsenal’s number one target at this stage. Arsenal are also looking at Nico Williams amongst others as they want an upgrade on Gabriel Martinelli.