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Southampton excluded from Championship play-offs
Southampton winger Leo Scienza expressed deep frustration on Thursday after the club was barred from the Championship play-offs, calling the decision a harsh blow for supporters who had backed the team all season.
EFL arbitration panel upholds decision
The English Football League (EFL) confirmed late Wednesday that Southampton's appeal against their play-off expulsion had been rejected. As a result, Hull City and Middlesbrough will contest the final at Wembley Stadium this Saturday.
Scienza voices frustration on social media
Scienza became the first Southampton player to publicly react to the ruling, posting a heartfelt message on Instagram. He described the outcome as "heartbreaking" for the club, players, and especially the fans.
"Disappointment, anger, sadness. It's difficult to find the right words for what we're all feeling right now. What has happened over the last days is heartbreaking. For the club, for every player in this dressing room, and above all for our supporters. A moment like this should never end the way it did."
Leo Scienza, Southampton winger
He also extended sympathy to Hull City and Middlesbrough, acknowledging the disruption caused by the controversy.
Standout debut season for Brazilian winger
Scienza joined Southampton last summer from German club Heidenheim, marking his first foray into English football. The 26-year-old quickly became a key figure, scoring seven goals and providing ten assists in his debut Championship campaign.
His performances earned him the Player of the Season award from both fans and teammates. A standout moment came in January when he scored the opening goal in the south coast derby against Portsmouth, sprinting the length of the pitch to celebrate with traveling supporters.
Fans' loyalty leaves lasting impression
Scienza, who previously played in Germany, Sweden, Uruguay, and Brazil, developed a strong bond with Southampton's fanbase. Known for his post-match laps of appreciation at St Mary's, he became a crowd favorite.
Reflecting on the play-off setback, he emphasized the fans' unwavering support throughout the season.
"The hardest part is knowing how much our fans deserved this moment. You stood behind us all season with incredible passion, loyalty, and belief. Even in the toughest moments, you carried us forward. Thank you for staying with us through everything-you definitely deserved better."
Leo Scienza
Premier League dream deferred
Scienza had previously spoken of his ambition to return to Wembley, having lost with Southampton in the FA Cup semi-final to Manchester City. He admitted it would have been a "dream" to play at the national stadium again and secure promotion to the Premier League.
Despite the setback, he maintained that Southampton "have to be" in the top flight, underscoring the club's determination to bounce back.
