Finn Azaz Shines as Southampton’s Key Player in Championship Surge

Finn Azaz has emerged as one of Ireland’s standout footballers in 2025, showcasing impressive skills and resilience throughout a transformative year. The 25-year-old midfielder has significantly contributed to his club, Southampton, and his national team, establishing himself as a key player in the Championship and beyond.

Azaz’s journey began with remarkable achievements at Middlesbrough, where he scored 12 goals and provided 11 assists in 45 appearances last season. This performance, notable for its quality, helped him secure a transfer to Southampton for a reported fee of €14 million plus add-ons. Despite a challenging start, where the Saints won only two of their first 13 matches, the team’s fortunes shifted dramatically after the appointment of interim manager Tonda Eckert on December 5, 2025.

Under Eckert’s guidance, Southampton won six of their next seven matches, bolstered by Azaz’s impressive form. After a dry spell in his first 10 games, Azaz scored six goals in five matches, reigniting hopes of promotion to the Premier League. Reflecting on the team’s turnaround, Azaz stated, “I think just a few tweaks and a little bit more detail, but all I can say is that this manager has been amazing.”

Azaz’s professional journey has been shaped by both challenges and triumphs. He was born in Westminster, London, and raised in Birmingham, where he began his football career at the age of nine with West Bromwich Albion’s academy. His commitment to the sport did not overshadow his academic achievements; he earned nine A*s and one A in his GCSEs while training intensively.

His resilience is further highlighted by a series of loan spells that provided him with valuable experience. His first loan to Cheltenham Town in League Two was pivotal, where he made 37 appearances, exhibiting his ability to thrive in a demanding environment. This performance led to a permanent move to Aston Villa, which subsequently loaned him to Newport County, where he scored seven goals in 42 appearances.

Azaz later joined Plymouth Argyle, where he scored eight goals during their promotion from League One, followed by another seven goals in the Championship. This consistent performance caught the attention of Middlesbrough, who signed him for approximately €2 million in January 2024. His time at the club culminated in a significant profit when he moved to Southampton a year later.

Adaptability has been a cornerstone of Azaz’s success, particularly evident in his international career with the Republic of Ireland. During a crucial match against Hungary, he was shifted to a deeper midfield role, demonstrating his versatility. He played a key part in the equalising goal, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure and contribute to the team’s success in securing a place in the World Cup playoffs.

Azaz expressed pride in his contributions, stating, “I’m really proud of being part of that team that did that, and my contribution.” His journey with the Irish national team has not been without its hurdles; he noted it took several games to fully integrate into the squad. However, his persistence has paid off, leading to a more prominent role in recent World Cup qualifiers.

Looking ahead, Azaz is optimistic about the upcoming playoffs against Czechia and potentially Denmark or North Macedonia. He recognizes the significance of qualifying for the World Cup, calling it “the pinnacle” of his career. With his dedication and performance, Azaz is poised to play a vital role in Ireland’s quest for success on the international stage.

As Azaz continues to excel, he remains grounded, cherishing the balance between his professional commitments and personal life. He has dedicated time to volunteer work at a hospice, reflecting on the fulfillment it brings him. “I just need to find the spare moments and the mental juice to get it in. I love doing it, and it gives me energy,” he shared, emphasizing the importance of connecting with others beyond the football pitch.

In conclusion, Finn Azaz’s year has been marked by personal and professional milestones, establishing him as a key figure in Irish football and a player to watch as Southampton aims for Championship success.