Leo Scienza and Adam Armstrong react to emotional Southampton player exit | OneFootball

Alex McCarthy's time at Southampton has come to an end

Southampton are preparing for another campaign in the Championship after failing to win the play-offs as a result of the infamous 'Spygate' saga involving semi-final opponents Middlesbrough.

The Saints had earned their place in the final but were expelled for breaching the EFL’s rules against spying on opposition training sessions.

Tonda Eckert is currently preparing his side for another potential promotion push next season, with the Hampshire outfit hoping to return to the top flight at the second time of asking.

It could be a busy summer at St. Mary’s as a result, with the possibility of a lot of incomings and outgoings on the cards.

Transfer business is likely to pick up in the next couple of weeks with the players set to return for pre-season.

Southampton will also learn their opening fixture of the new campaign this week, with the schedule to be released on 25 June.

Southampton stars react to Alex McCarthy announcement

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Alex McCarthy has announced that he is leaving Southampton after 10 years with the club.

The goalkeeper has claimed he is seeking a fresh challenge, but that he will continue to follow the Saints from afar after growing so attached to the Hampshire outfit during his time as part of the team.

“After 10 incredible years it’s time for a fresh challenge,” wrote McCarthy, via Instagram.

“I’ve loved my time at Southampton and have amazing memories.

“I’d like to thank the fans, everyone in the club and of course my amazing team mates.

“You’ve allowed me to achieve things I could only dream of when I joined.

“I’ve watched my children grow up in Saints shirts and we will continue to follow this special club!”

A number of McCarthy’s current and former teammates have responded to confirmation of his departure, including Leo Scienza and Adam Armstrong.

The Brazilian simply posted a prayer hands and heart emoji, while the Wolves forward posted a goat emoji, as well as a heart.

McCarthy featured seven times in the Championship last season, keeping one clean sheet and conceding on 10 occasions.

His final appearance for the club came on 1 November in a 2-0 loss to Preston North End, with Will Still losing his job as head coach shortly after.

How Southampton fans feel about Alex McCarthy’s exit

With Daniel Peretz as first-choice, Southampton will now need to determine his backup, and some Southampton supporters are surprised that it won’t be McCarthy.

His exit has garnered a mostly positive reaction, with fans expressing their gratitude for his role in the team.

And while he may not have always been a popular choice to start in goal, his character has received a lot of praise.

Meanwhile, some fans believe that McCarthy should’ve left after helping the Saints to promotion in 2024 through the play-offs, in order to exit on a high point.

McCarthy is now a free agent, and it remains to be seen where he will be plying his trade next season.

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Alex McCarthy’s exit has come at the right time

Southampton have had a few issues in finding the right person to take on the number one role in the team in the last couple of years, particularly with Gavin Bazunu struggling for form and fitness.

McCarthy has stepped up when required, proving a very capable number two, but he was always unlikely to become first-choice long-term.

With Peretz now signed on a permanent basis, the timing is right for the 36-year-old to move on, if he wants a challenge elsewhere.

He will be remembered well by Southampton fans for helping the team win promotion under Russell Martin, and there will be no hard feelings over him walking away this summer.