Leandro Trossard decision proves masterstroke as Arsenal reap rewards

Leandro Trossard’s resurgence has quietly become one of the defining subplots of Arsenal’s title charge, with Mikel Arteta now unable to justify leaving the Belgian out of his strongest XI despite having a full complement of attackers available.

What initially felt like a curious summer decision is rapidly looking like one of Arsenal’s smartest calls.

Arsenal’s transfer window delivered plenty of headline moments. The arrival of Viktor Gyökeres eased long-standing striker concerns, while hijacking Tottenham’s move for Eberechi Eze sparked genuine excitement among supporters.

By contrast, the decision to hand Leandro Trossard a pay rise without extending his contract raised eyebrows. His deal already ran until 2027, and the move was framed by Mikel Arteta as a reward rather than a long-term commitment.

On current evidence, that judgement looks inspired.

Excluding a brief ankle injury, Trossard has started 11 of Arsenal’s last 13 Premier League matches. During that spell, his output and influence have rivalled — and in some cases surpassed — the club’s bigger-name attackers.

He scored away at Sunderland, delivered a goal and assist against Tottenham, and produced arguably his best all-round performance of the season in the recent win over Aston Villa.

Statistically, his Villa display underlined his importance. He matched any player on the pitch for shots on target, ranked just behind Martin Ødegaard and Martin Zubimendi for touches among Arsenal players, and covered significantly more ground than Bukayo Saka. His defensive work-rate stood out too, finishing among the top tacklers and distance runners.

Arteta has repeatedly stressed that Trossard’s evolution is not accidental.

“I think he’s gone up a level every season,” the Arsenal boss said. “He’s such an intelligent player. He’s found his role, his maturity, and his confidence is higher. He’s a player that can create magic moments and is very important for us.”

That trust is now translating into consistent selection rather than impact cameos.

One of the most compelling aspects of Trossard’s form is how naturally he connects with Viktor Gyökeres. The Belgian has repeatedly looked to exploit space early, playing quick balls in behind defences or delivering sharp crosses that suit the striker’s movement.

Gyökeres has already gone close several times from Trossard’s service, dragging shots wide or narrowly missing headers that hint at a partnership still forming rather than peaking.

With time, that understanding could become a decisive weapon.

When Arsenal signed Trossard for £27m in January 2023, he was seen as a smart rotational addition. That view was reinforced by the club’s failed pursuit of Mykhailo Mudryk at nearly triple the price.

For much of his Arsenal career, Trossard’s influence came off the bench. Now, he is matching and even surpassing established starters. In 2025, he registered more Premier League goals and assists than any of his team-mates.

At 31, this is not a late-career flourish driven by circumstance. It is the product of clarity, confidence and tactical fit.

Arsenal now have Noni Madueke, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus all fit and available. On paper, that should create rotation opportunities. In reality, form has removed debate.

Ahead of the trip to Bournemouth, there is no attacker playing better football than Trossard. If he is left out, it should be because of fatigue management, not competition.

As Arsenal continue to chase the title, Arteta’s challenge is no longer how to fit Trossard in, but how to rest him without losing momentum. In a squad full of options, reliability has become priceless.

Has Leandro Trossard quietly become Arsenal’s most important attacker in the title race?