Leandro Trossard: A Rising Star at Arsenal

Leandro Trossard has had an impressive season at Arsenal, contributing four goals and four assists in 14 appearances across all competitions. His performance includes a remarkable strike against Sunderland prior to the international break, and two of his goals in the Premier League have directly earned the team four vital points, one notably being a winning shot against Fulham on October 18.

Peter Maes, who guided Trossard during his formative years at Genk, recently expressed his surprise at the player’s evolution. Speaking to Het Belang van Limburg, later shared by Voetbal Primeur, Maes reflected on Trossard’s earlier days, noting, “At that time, I didn’t immediately see Leandro as a true captain. He was primarily focused on his own game. When I was training him, he wasn’t a regular starter yet and often appeared disheartened in practice. However, he seems to have matured considerably, as he is now performing exceptionally well at Arsenal.”

Now, six years later, Maes recognizes a profoundly transformed individual at Arsenal. “Leandro is undoubtedly a strong personality,” he stated. “In this regard, he is a viable candidate for captaincy of the Red Devils, especially with several key players absent. He possesses deep self-belief and can inspire that confidence within the entire team.”

Should he receive the captaincy for Belgium, it would represent a significant milestone in Trossard’s career. With Kevin De Bruyne sidelined due to injury and regular captain Youri Tielemans unavailable, Rudi Garcia may consider handing the armband to Trossard.

According to Football.London, during the final days of the summer transfer window, Roma quietly reached out to Arsenal to explore the possibility of acquiring Trossard following the signing of Eberechi Eze. They were not alone in their interest; Fenerbahce and several clubs from the Saudi Pro League also inquired, building upon Al-Ittihad’s formal bid that was rejected by Arsenal last September. Nonetheless, Mikel Arteta remained resolute in keeping the Belgian, recognizing the depth and versatility he adds to a squad competing on multiple fronts.

Trossard scored in Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Athletic Club in the Champions League, expressing his enthusiasm for performing in high-stakes matches. “As a player, from my youth, these are the games you aspire to play in,” he shared with club media. “There’s an element of excitement and a desire to prove oneself. These matches against top teams are the most thrilling, and I believe we are capable of defeating any opponent. Given our near misses for trophies in recent seasons, it’s time for us to strive for success. We’re all eager for it, and that’s our primary objective.”

Arsenal acquired Trossard for £21 million from Brighton in January 2023, a move now regarded as a shrewd piece of recruitment. There are reports suggesting that Trossard is eager to negotiate an improved deal, merely months after signing an extension. Although he enjoys playing at the Emirates, he aims to keep his options open should circumstances change in north London.

“I still have two years left on my contract, and then we will evaluate the club’s intentions as well as my position at that time. However, I am truly enjoying my time at Arsenal and am grateful to be a part of such a great club at this promising juncture. I hope to achieve success with Arsenal,” he stated.

As the fixtures continue to pile up and Arsenal pursues silverware in both English and European competitions, Trossard aims to secure his place as a regular starter under Arteta, particularly with Martinelli’s absence creating an opportunity that he is ready to seize.