Mikel Arteta praises Leandro Trossard after debut goal

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta heaped praise on Leandro Trossard following his excellent cameo performance against Brentford in the Premier League.

The Belgium international replaced Gabriel Martinelli in the 62nd minute yesterday and he took only four minutes to score his maiden goal for the club.

It was not enough for the win, but Arteta was hugely impressed with the way Trossard expressed himself with his clever movement from the wide positions.

He told Arsenal.com: “I think every player has got their moment. We took Gabi off for Leo because when Leo’s in those spaces, he’s so good. He’s so composed.”

“He’s constantly faking movements, playing forwards, he’s got a smell for where the ball is going to land, and we believe it was the right choice to get him on today.”

Leandro Trossard must start against Manchester City

The Gunners have suffered a mid-season slump with just one point from the last two games against Everton and Brentford. This was always bound to happen.

The north London giants now need to respond and have a big challenge on their hands when Pep Guardiola’s side visit the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday.

Manchester City are currently six points behind Arsenal, but the gap could reduce to three points if they beat Aston Villa today. Hence, they can leapfrog the Gunners on goal difference in midweek.

In our opinion, Trossard must get the nod on the left wing against the Cityzens. He has looked lively in every performance and always possesses a goal threat.

He was one of Arsenal’s best performers in the slender 1-0 FA Cup fourth round loss at City last month. Arteta must make the most of his big-game potential.

Aside from his goal, Trossard won two take-ons and two duels yesterday. He was assured in possession and completed 19 out of his 20 passes in the derby.

The Belgian should be picked on the left wing ahead of Martinelli on current form. Martinelli could still start up front, should Arteta decide to drop Eddie Nketiah.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com and Sofascore.com