Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed he explicitly forbade any sale of forward Leandro Trossard during the recent summer transfer window, despite heavy speculation linking the Belgian with a move away from the club.
‘No Chance’: Arteta Shut Down Trossard Transfer Talks Completely
Trossard was the subject of significant transfer rumours, with clubs such as Bayern Munich and Besiktas reportedly interested in acquiring his services.
The attacking reinforcements Arsenal secured, including Viktor Gyokeres and Eberechi Eze, further fueled talk that the 30-year-old might be deemed surplus.
However, Arteta has now publicly shut down those claims, stating he never considered letting Trossard leave.
The manager emphasized his absolute belief in the player’s importance to the squad.
“For me it was forbidden for him to leave. No chance,” Arteta stated firmly.
“I know the player that he is, and surrounded with the players that we have, he’s a player that is going to make a difference for us.”
Arteta’s decision has already proven justified this season. Trossard has been a consistent contributor, making 14 appearances and scoring four goals.
His value was on full display during Sunday’s emphatic 4-1 victory over Tottenham, where he opened the scoring.
The Spaniard hailed that performance as one of Trossard’s best in an Arsenal shirt, praising his aggression and effectiveness.
“He could have scored another one or two goals, and he was involved in so many positive actions,” Arteta added.
While Trossard set the stage, it was summer signing Eberechi Eze who ultimately stole the derby spotlight, netting a superb hat-trick.
Arteta also took time to praise the England international, highlighting his incredible work ethic and desire to improve after joining the club.
“When a player has such a talent, and his desire is at that level, then these things happen,” Arteta said of Eze’s match-winning performance.
“He brought something else to the team. It’s a joy, it’s an aura that this team needed.”
With both Trossard and Eze delivering, Arteta’s transfer window decisions appear increasingly astute as his squad demonstrates both its depth and firepower.
