Aribo, Edozie Omitted as Saints Snatch Late Win Over Wrexham

Southampton staged a dramatic late turnaround to beat Wrexham 2–1 in their Championship season opener, despite the absence of Joe Aribo and Samuel Edozie from the matchday squad. Manager Will Still explained that both players were intentionally left out as the club and individuals assess their futures, with pivotal decisions to be made at this stage of their careers.

Aribo’s availability has been the subject of speculation after limited appearances during pre-season. The Charlton Athletic academy graduate missed out on friendlies versus Brighton & Hove Albion and Eastleigh, remained an unused substitute in the Espanyol and Gillingham fixtures, featured only in the second half against CD Castellón, and started one game against Valenciennes.

Now in the final year of his contract since joining Southampton from Rangers in July 2022, Aribo has made 104 appearances, netted nine goals and provided a single assist. Several European clubs including Turkish giants Beşiktaş—are reportedly interested, with just 24 days left in the summer transfer window.

On the field, Wrexham looked set to claim victory after leading 1–0 into the closing stages. But Ryan Manning’s brilliant free-kick drew Saints level in the 90th minute. Jack Stephens then struck in the sixth minute of stoppage time to seal a sensational win.

Goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, meanwhile, did not make his Championship debut, remaining an unused substitute throughout the contest at St Mary’s Stadium.

Editorial

We welcome the pragmatic decision to omit Aribo and Edozie from the squad as a necessary step in navigating their uncertain futures. Rather than forcing appearances, the club appears to be prioritising clarity—yesterday’s decisions were about more than simply winning on the field.

We see this as an indication that Southampton are thoughtfully managing transitions, blending respect for the players’ development with the club’s strategic needs. Aribo’s contract situation demands a balanced approach, and this pause may afford both player and club room to chart the next move purposefully.

On a broader level, the way football clubs handle such crossroads speaks volumes about their professionalism. By allowing reflection instead of reaction, Southampton demonstrate a level of maturity that we believe will serve them well in both short-term results and long-term squad management.

Ultimately, the late comeback win reflects resilience on the pitch off it, the measured handling of sensitive transitions reinforces our view that prudent decision-making can underpin sustained success.

Did You Know?

1. Joe Aribo was part of the Rangers side that reached the 2022 UEFA Europa League final before joining Southampton later that year.
2. Samuel Edozie emerged from Manchester City’s academy but has previously spent time on loan gaining senior experience at Middlesbrough.
3. Before Rangers, Aribo began his senior career in Sweden with IFK Göteborg.
4. Arthur Okonkwo represented England at youth levels before pledging his international future to Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
5. Southampton were founded in 1885 and originally named St Mary’s Young Men’s Association, adopting the “Saints” nickname due to their church origins.