Leandro Trossard’s outstanding November came to a painful end just 18 minutes into Tuesday’s 3-1 Champions League victory over Bayern Munich. There is another injury blow yet again for the Gunners. The Belgian winger rolled his ankle in a challenge with Joshua Kimmich. He tried to play on, but eventually signalled to the bench. He left the Emirates Stadium on crutches and wearing a protective boot — never a good sign.
Diagnosis Confirmed
This news of another blow of injury that came from by Mikel Arteta during today’s press conference was regarding Leandro’s injury. Mikel Arteta stated: “We have the image from Leandro’s ankle and it shows ligament damage in his ankle. He is going to be out for four to six weeks, at least. This injury is going to hurt our team because Leandro has been one of our most important players this year.”
Leandro Trossard has had the chance to help make a total of six goals and seven assists in the whole season and is the one who comes next in line after Bukayo Saka in the creator ranking at Arsenal.
The Worse Timing
The big title-race implications came along with Sunday’s visit to Stamford Bridge. Also, a victory would make it a nine-point gap between Arsenal and fifth-placed Chelsea.
Now Arteta must cope without:
- Leandro Trossard (4–6 weeks)
- Viktor Gyökeres (long-term)
- Kai Havertz (ongoing absence)
- Martin Ødegaard still being carefully managed post-knee injury
- Gabriel Jesus has only just resumed full training and is unlikely to start.
Who Steps Up?
Gabriel Martinelli is expected to return to the left flank, with Noni Madueke. Even Ethan Nwaneri in contention for minutes. Arteta insisted: “We’ve shown all season that when one door closes, another player kicks it open. The squad is ready for the challenge.”
The December Test Begins
Moreover, with Manchester City, Inter Milan and Fulham to follow in the next ten days, Arsenal’s depth faces its sternest examination yet. How Arsenal navigate this latest setback could define their title credentials.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
