Leandro Trossard has been one of Arsenal’s most reliable performers since arriving from Brighton, yet his international career continues to spark debate. The 30-year-old forward opened up to Nieuwsblad about the challenges of adapting with Belgium — comments that come at a time when his place at Arsenal is also under fresh scrutiny following a busy summer of recruitment.
At club level, Trossard has been a fan favourite under Mikel Arteta, contributing goals and assists at crucial moments. But Arsenal’s summer transfer business has altered the picture. With attacking additions like Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze arriving, the Belgian faces increased competition in wide and creative roles. On paper, his minutes look set to shrink, though he has fought back before and remains an important squad option.
For Belgium, however, his output has not matched his Arsenal levels. At a national team press conference, Trossard admitted he finds it harder to replicate his form in red than in North London, citing tactical differences and positional changes as reasons behind the contrast.
Trossard: “It’s harder with Belgium than Arsenal”
The former Genk and Brighton man did not shy away from addressing criticism.
“I find it more difficult with the national team than at Arsenal. Not that I’ve never played well for Belgium, but it’s sometimes harder. I’ve had to play in many different positions. At Arsenal, there’s a structure every day — with Belgium it’s different. Still, I know I’ve delivered at times with the national team too.” — Leandro Trossard
Trossard stressed the importance of Belgium’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against North Macedonia and Wales, describing the fixtures as “crucial” for their hopes of reaching the 2026 tournament.
Transfer talk and Arsenal’s summer rebuild
While speculation swirled about his future in the summer, Trossard confirmed he was never close to leaving.
“There were rumours about a transfer, but after speaking with the coach, I decided to stay. I had a difficult pre-season with an injury, so I wasn’t fully fit. Now I feel better, and that’s why I’m playing more.” — Leandro Trossard
Arsenal’s summer rebuild was significant, with Madueke and Eze among those strengthening Arteta’s attacking unit. Their arrivals inevitably put pressure on Trossard’s game time, but his versatility remains a valuable asset. He has regularly proven capable of playing across the frontline, often stepping up in key fixtures.
Analyst verdict: a balancing act for Trossard
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Trossard’s situation epitomises the balancing act faced by experienced attackers in big squads.
“Arsenal’s recruitment has brought depth and competition, which is exactly what Arteta wants. For Trossard, it means he has to fight for every minute — but his experience and adaptability give him an edge. At international level, the lack of continuity clearly impacts him, but at Arsenal he knows the system and thrives within it.”
Key insights
- Leandro Trossard admits it is “harder” with Belgium than at Arsenal.
- He has faced heavy criticism from Belgian media in recent international windows.
- Arsenal’s summer signings Madueke and Eze increase competition for his place.
- Trossard insists he never planned to leave Arsenal despite rumours.
- Belgium face North Macedonia and Wales in key World Cup qualifiers.
What’s next for Trossard and Arsenal?
Trossard will be hoping to make a statement during this international break, as Belgium’s qualification hopes hang in the balance. A strong showing could silence critics and reassert his value on the international stage.
Back in North London, the Belgian faces the challenge of proving himself all over again. With Madueke and Eze eager to impress, Arteta must rotate carefully to keep his attacking players sharp. For Trossard, that means seizing every chance to remind Arsenal fans why he has been such a reliable figure since his arrival.
👉 Do you think Leandro Trossard can keep his place in Arsenal’s attack despite the summer signings of Madueke and Eze?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *