Arteta reveals player he’s proud of despite disappointing draw with Brentford

Leandro Trossard came off the bench to score his first goal for Arsenal in their 1-1 draw with Brentford on Saturday. The Belgian winger, who joined the Gunners from Brighton in the January transfer window, was brought on as a substitute in the second half and made an instant impact.

Trossard latched onto a Bukayo Saka cross to tap home his first goal for Arsenal at the back post and give them a 1-0 lead. However, Ivan Toney equalised for Brentford just eight minutes later, denying Arsenal all three points.

Despite the result, Mikel Arteta was full of praise for Trossard’s performance after the game. He said as per Arsenal Media:

“This is what we see every single day in training. I think the contribution he’s had in the game, with the minutes that he has played, has been really good. And it’s great to have a player that when you put them in the game, you have a feeling that something is going to happen. He brings a lot of courage when the game is like this, to take the ball and go for it.”

LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 11: Leandro Trossard celebrates scoring the Arsenal goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brentford FC at Emirates Stadium on February 11, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Trossard’s goal was his first since joining Arsenal from Brighton and will be a huge confidence boost for him as he looks to establish himself as an important member of Arteta’s squad. The 28-year-old has made some few off the bench appearances so far since his arrival but is yet to be given a start in the Premier League.

However, with his impressive performance against Brentford, Trossard may have done enough to convince Arteta that he deserves more playing time in upcoming matches. If given more opportunities, there is no doubt that Trossard can be an important player for Arsenal this season and help them win the Premier League table.