Ivan Juric prepared to hand forgotten Southampton defender a fresh chance | OneFootball

Ivan Juric is prepared to hand a fresh chance for Armel Bella-Kotchap to redeem himself at Southampton, after intensive talks.

Over the last few years, Southampton have seen an increased number of players coming and going. Unfortunately, this is just part of the nature of playing football in the second tier of England, then coming straight back up.

There are certain players who want only the best of the best. Those kind of players, unfortunately, are unlikely to stick with a club through their worst times.

One of those players who jumped ship from Southampton when the Saints were relegated was defender Armel Bella-Kotchap.

Last season, Bella-Kotchap was on loan at PSV, while Southampton were in the Championship. However, he could now see his redemption arc at St Marys Stadium.

Ivan Juric prepared to hand forgotten Southampton defender a fresh chance

Armel Bella-Kotchap has claimed that he's been in discussion with new Southampton boss Ivan Juric, who reassured him that he would be given a chance to prove himself in the Southampton lineup.

In his own words, Bella-Kotchap said: “Over the last two days, I’ve had intensive discussions with the club’s management, who assured me that they value me highly and that I’ll get my chance under the new coach.”

It must be noted, though, that Bella-Kotchap is still open to a potential move in the future. He has not stated that he 100% committed to Southampton which is to be expected given how the last few seasons have gone for him.

Under Russell Martin in the 2024/25 season, Bella-Kotchap has made just one appearance. This came in the second round of the EFL Cup, when Southampton beat Cardiff City. Don't think anyone needs reminding of the stress-levels that game caused...

For many reasons, Southampton have needed a new manager to come in and hold down the fort. Not only does Juric guarantee a change in the playing style, which Southampton have needed for a long time now, but he also offers a fresh opportunity to players like Bella-Kotchap.

There will be some fans who don't look at Bella-Kotchap favourably, but let's be open to all potential outcomes here.