Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has emphatically dismissed speculation surrounding Leandro Trossard’s potential departure in the January transfer window, praising the winger’s “intuition” after his match-winning performance in a 1-0 victory over Fulham. The Belgian international, who joined Arsenal from Brighton and Hove Albion for £27million (€31m, $36m) in January 2023, has proven himself indispensable to the Gunners’ Premier League title aspirations.
Trossard’s decisive goal in the 58th minute at Craven Cottage on Saturday evening underscored his importance to the team. Latching onto a flicked header from Gabriel off a Bukayo Saka corner, the 30-year-old fired home from close range to secure three vital points in the London derby. The strike marked Trossard’s third goal and second assist in nine appearances this season, adding to his impressive tally of 10 goals and 10 assists in 56 matches across all competitions in the 2024/25 campaign.
Arteta’s post-match comments to BBC MOTD left no room for doubt about Trossard’s role in his plans. “He’s got that intuition to score the goals and that’s what we want,” Arteta said. “The players are the options. Some players came in today. Nothing different to other top teams.” His words directly addressed and dismissed earlier reports, such as one from TBR on October 10, suggesting Arsenal might sell Trossard to fund a move for Real Madrid’s Rodrygo. With Rodrygo since confirming his desire to stay at Real Madrid, and Trossard’s form showing no signs of waning, any talk of a mid-season exit appears baseless.
Trossard’s value to Arsenal extends beyond his recent goal-scoring heroics. The versatile winger, who started on the left of a three-man attack in a 4-3-3 formation against Fulham, has consistently delivered since his arrival. His contract, which runs until the summer of 2027, was recently rewarded with a pay rise, as reported by BBC Sport on August 19, reflecting his growing influence. Trossard’s ability to perform in high-stakes moments was further evidenced by his goal for Belgium against Wales in a 2026 World Cup qualifier earlier this week.
With Arsenal firmly in the Premier League title race, letting go of a player of Trossard’s caliber mid-season would be illogical. His knack for finding the net and creating chances makes him a cornerstone of Arteta’s squad, which is determined to end the club’s 22-year wait for a league title. The Gunners’ depth and quality, exemplified by Trossard’s contributions, are critical to sustaining their challenge against top rivals.
Meanwhile, Arsenal’s transfer landscape is not without its developments. Sources from TEAMtalk indicate that the club has told another international player he is free to leave in January, with Arsenal seeking £30m for his services. Additionally, the Gunners face disappointment with news that an Argentina international playmaker is set to join Real Madrid in the summer of 2026. On a brighter note, a rising Arsenal star has expressed his commitment to staying at the club despite limited playing time this season, signaling a positive long-term outlook for the squad.
For now, Arteta’s focus remains clear: Trossard is not going anywhere. His “intuition” and proven track record make him a vital asset as Arsenal push for glory in the 2024/25 season.