Leandro Trossard: Why Arsenal Winger Faces Crucial Race to Regain Fitness

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has moved to ease immediate concerns surrounding Leandro Trossard after the Belgian winger was forced off during the first half of Arsenal’s Champions League victory over Bayern Munich. 

The 29-year-old, who has been in inspired form in recent weeks, signalled discomfort midway through the opening period, prompting Arteta to withdraw him as a precaution.

Trossard’s departure came just minutes after he had found the net in another impressive display, continuing a run of strong performances that has seen him become one of Arsenal’s most influential attacking players. 

PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Google News, Stay informed with Latest Sport News

The club faces a gruelling schedule over the next two weeks, and Trossard’s fitness has become a major talking point for supporters. It was shortly after the match that Arteta provided his reassurance.

"With Leo, we don't know. He said he felt something, we didn't want to take any risk, obviously,” said Arteta.

According to the Daily Mirror, Arsenal medical staff will continue to assess Trossard over the coming days, with initial indications pointing toward a minor issue rather than a long-term concern. 

The timing of Trossard’s scare could hardly be worse. Arsenal are already without Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres—three key attacking players who remain sidelined with various injuries. Gabriel Magalhaes, another important figure, is still out after picking up a knock on international duty with Brazil.

Trossard had been one of the few remaining constants in Arteta’s forward options, appearing in every match this season until Wednesday night. His surge in form since the October international break has been particularly vital, with all three of his Premier League goals coming in that period. His standout performance came in the 4–1 win over Tottenham Hotspur, where he scored and assisted in a memorable derby triumph.

Given his importance, Arsenal will proceed cautiously and hope inside the club is that the Belgian could return in time for the upcoming Premier League clash against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, or at least soon after, as Arteta’s side prepares for a run of five matches in 13 days. 

Trossard’s impact this season is underscored by his output as his five goals and five assists in 16 appearances across all competitions. 

Only Bukayo Saka and Viktor Gyokeres have scored more goals, while Declan Rice sits just ahead of him in assists. 

Arteta reflected on that decision earlier this month, explaining why Trossard remains central to his plans.

"For me, it was forbidden for him [Trossard] to leave. No chance. I know the player that he is, and surrounded by the players that we have, he's a player who is going to make a difference for us."