'I wanted him to leave the club': Garba on Aribo's career in England

Former Nigeria international Ahmed Garba in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa expressed belief that the conclusion of the transfer saga is the best outcome for Joe Aribo’s career.

Previously, Southampton manager Will Still confirmed that Aribo has been reintegrated into the first-team squad following the transfer deadline.

“Personally, I wanted Aribo to leave the club when they were relegated, but since that did not work, it is important he gets reintegrated into the team and starts playing football again,” Garba said in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa.

“It is not good for a footballer to be on the sidelines, even though I understand why it happened. But it is also important that he starts playing again, as staying out for a long time is not good for him. Look at Onuachu, who left them and is now settled playing football in Turkey, but Aribo has not even played one game this season from what I gathered. He is a good and creative player who will do well for Southampton if they give him the chance. I know he will have to work extra hard to get into the team, but I believe in his ability.”

4 major clubs eyeing Joe Aribo ahead of potential summer move from Southampton

Aribo will remain at Southampton for the rest of the season after uncertainty over his future was finally settled at the close of the transfer window.

The 29-year-old had been linked with a move away following Southampton’s relegation from the Premier League, which triggered a mass exodus from the club.

European sides including RB Leipzig, Besiktas, and Villarreal all showed interest, while there were also reports of a possible mutual termination of his contract, which runs until the end of the current campaign.

However, none of those moves materialised, and Aribo is now set to stay with the Saints at least until the summer.