Arteta Suspended; Arsenal Confirmed as Runners-Up

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta will serve a touchline ban for the club’s final Premier League match against relegated Southampton after receiving his third yellow card of the season during Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Newcastle United. Arsenal are set to finish as league runners-up for the third consecutive season, having already secured Champions League qualification. The outcome of the final match will not affect Arsenal’s league standing. Amid the club’s consistent top-two finishes, speculation about Arteta’s job security has arisen, with Paul Merson suggesting he must keep Arsenal in the top two by Christmas next season to avoid dismissal. Arteta acknowledged the team did not meet its Premier League and Champions League ambitions, citing injuries and plans for summer squad improvements. The last match will also feature farewells for departing players such as Kieran Tierney and Jorginho.