BREAKING NEWS: Arsenal are already aware of Leandro Trossard’s stance following Martin Odegaard’s unexpected injury setback.
Leandro Trossard has assured Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta that he is ready to take on Martin Odegaard’s role following the Norwegian midfielder’s recent injury setback.
The incident raised alarms as Odegaard, 25, was visibly distressed while being helped off the field during Norway’s 2-1 win over Austria on Monday. His injury adds to the growing list of sidelined Arsenal players, including Riccardo Calafiori, Mikel Merino, Gabriel Jesus, and Takehiro Tomiyasu.
Despite Odegaard’s absence, Trossard offers Arteta a promising alternative by potentially filling the creative void left in the attacking midfield—a position Odegaard has made his own. Since joining Arsenal in 2023, Trossard has primarily been deployed on the wings and occasionally as a ‘false nine.’ However, The Mirror has previously reported that Trossard has hinted at a preference for playing as a No. 10.
Upon signing for Arsenal, Trossard spoke about his versatility and eagerness to work under Arteta, saying: “Being versatile helps me, as I can play in different positions. The coaching staff is excited to work with me, and I feel the same. I think Mikel is an exceptional coach.”
Trossard further expressed his playing preferences: “I like to operate in the pocket behind the striker. Although I’m also comfortable on the wings, if given the choice, I’d prefer the role behind the striker. However, it ultimately depends on the system.”
Arteta now faces a tactical conundrum as he prepares for Sunday’s North London Derby against Tottenham Hotspur. With Arsenal grappling with an early-season injury crisis and the suspension of key midfielder Declan Rice following his red card in the recent draw against Brighton, the Gunners are facing a significant challenge.
While finding a replacement for Rice might be the toughest task, Trossard seems poised to seamlessly fill in for Odegaard without major disruptions. Even though Odegaard is a critical figure at the Emirates, Trossard has demonstrated his capability and reliability in every role he’s been assigned.
Arsenal’s squad depth is already being tested, especially after dropping points against Trossard’s former club Brighton. This early challenge could impact Arsenal’s pursuit of the Premier League title, with hopes of finally surpassing Manchester City. Odegaard’s injury is another setback that Arteta and his team will need to navigate.
The timing of the injury is far from ideal, with Arsenal’s Champions League campaign set to begin against Atalanta next week, followed by a crucial Premier League clash with Manchester City just three days later. Although it remains unclear how long Odegaard will be sidelined, Norway’s head coach Stale Solbakken expressed concern, stating that the injury “looks bad.”
After Norway’s victory over Austria, Solbakken commented: “It looked bad in the dressing room as well. Odegaard didn’t feel confident enough to continue playing. I doubt that Arteta will be calling me tonight to praise me.”
Providing further insight, Norway team doctor Ola Sand updated on Odegaard’s condition: “He suffered a minor ankle sprain. We will evaluate further, possibly using ultrasound, and if there’s still uncertainty, an MRI will be conducted tomorrow.”