Joe Aribo’s recent run of three consecutive starts this season at Southampton marks a positive turn for the Super Eagles midfielder, as noted by Soccernet.ng.
His impressive performances in these matches, achieving ratings of 6.8 and 6.9, emphasizes his potential impact on the field.
However, amidst these positive performances, Aribo’s situation at Southampton presents ongoing challenges in securing a consistent role within the squad.
Since Russell Martin’s arrival, Aribo’s rhythm at St. Mary’s Stadium has been disrupted. Despite his recent starts, he’s been limited to just 12 starts out of 15 appearances this season, following a campaign with restricted playing time in the Premier League.
The inclusion of Flynn Downes in Southampton’s midfield hierarchy has notably impacted Aribo’s role, even though Downes’ recent absence due to illness provided Aribo with the opportunity to start.
Expressing his desire to play as an impactful box-to-box midfielder highlights Aribo’s ambition to contribute significantly to the game.
However, within Southampton’s squad dynamics, securing a consistent starting spot might prove challenging, especially with strong performances from players like Shea Charles and Stuart Armstrong in their respective roles.
At 27, Aribo faces a crucial phase in his career. While rumours of a potential move to Galatasaray surfaced during the summer transfer window, the upcoming transfer window presents an opportune time for Aribo to exhibit his abilities more prominently.
However, concerns arise regarding the potential stagnation of his career growth if he continues to face limited chances for regular playtime at Southampton.
In essence, despite the recent positive signs, considering a move away from Southampton might offer Joe Aribo a more viable pathway to secure the consistent playing time necessary for his flourishing career development.
