Maitland-Niles joins Saints on loan

The 25-year-old has completed a season-long move to Saints on deadline day, adding further strength and versatility to Ralph Hasenhüttl’s squad ahead of the remainder of the 2022/23 campaign.

A product of the Arsenal academy, Maitland-Niles is accomplished as both a full-back and midfielder. He has made 132 appearances for the Gunners and has also represented England at all levels from Under-17s to the senior side, earning five full international caps.

Following his debut for Arsenal at 17, he spent the 2015/16 season on loan at Ipswich to gain valuable experience, before returning to establish himself as a regular in the London side’s squad.

ainsley is at a good point in his career, with a lot of experience already, but he is also still a player with potential.

ralph hasenhüttl
on ainsley maitland-niles

Maitland-Niles was part of the team that won the 2020 FA Cup, starting the final against Chelsea, while he has also spent time on loan at West Brom and Roma over the past two seasons.

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhüttl said: “Ainsley is at a good point in his career, with a lot of experience already, but he is also still a player with potential, and he is someone who can definitely help us.

“I think he fits well with us and can develop his game even further during his time here. He can also play in different positions, which is always a good thing, and I am pleased to welcome him as part of our squad.”