By the end of the summer transfer window, Leandro Trossard’s dreams of being an offensive midfielder for Arsenal may have been dashed. Mohammed Kudus would undoubtedly climb to near the top of the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium if the Gunners were to sign him in a deal worth around £40 million.
Following his January move from Brighton, Trossard has made a good impression in north London and highlighted why Arsenal were pleased to strike a deal for £21m. The Belgium international frequently made an impact coming off of the bench for Mikel Arteta’s side, being deployed in numerous roles.
Trossard can play as a striker, winger, or both, but he made it clear when he signed with Arsenal that his primary goal was to develop into their creative midfielder. However, given Arsenal’s recent transfer activity this summer, the former Genk star will have to settle for playing in the wide positions.
Speaking last season, he said: “It helps me that I’m versatile and that I can play in different positions. They’re looking forward to working with me and vice versa. I’m really excited to work with them and I think Mikel is a top coach.
“I prefer to be in the striker’s pocket. I can also explore myself when I’m on the wings. I’m at ease in both of those places, but if I had to pick one, it would be behind the striker – it depends on the system. Arteta does appear to plan on playing Trossard in such a role, despite his audacious comment.
At the top of Arsenal’s midfield diamond, Martin Odegaard has been incomparable; nonetheless, Arteta’s team decided to bring in Kai Havertz from Chelsea as a backup due to scheduling conflicts. The Ghanaian international Kudus is also being considered, and he enjoys having the opportunity to roam behind a No. 9.
Although the Ajax star is just as versatile as Trossard, Kudus can be seen as the club’s third-best No. 10 option due to the difference in price between the two. In such area, you should also take into account Emile Smith Rowe and Fabio Vieira.
Trossard won’t be short of minutes next season with Arsenal capable of competing for the Premier League title and all cup competitions, where squad rotation will be pivotal. However, he may need to adjust his expectations in north London and understand that his positional demands will be compromised in the upcoming campaign – especially if Kudus joins the club.
