Leandro Trossard has reflected on his journey with Arsenal in 2023. Following his transfer from Brighton & Hove Albion on January 20, he wasted no time making a mark, debuting in a thrilling 3-2 victory against Manchester United just two days later. The excitement continued off the pitch as well, with the joyous arrival of his second child on January 30.
Since the whirlwind start, Leo has seamlessly integrated into the Gunners’ squad, solidifying his role as a crucial member of the first team. Wrapping up the 2022/23 season, he notched an impressive 11 direct goal contributions, averaging one per every other match.
One standout moment etched his name in Premier League history during Arsenal’s triumph at Fulham. In a remarkable feat, the Belgian became the first player ever to deliver a hat-trick of assists in the first half of an away match, adding a unique chapter to his growing Arsenal legacy.
Trossard explains his Arsenal journey since Brighton move
“I felt welcome from the first day”, Leo told us at the training ground recently.
“The way this team helps you to settle in is great. We’ve got quite a young squad and everyone tries to involve you in everything. That makes it a lot easier.”
“When I arrived, all my teammates came over and spoke to me. A lot of the squad have joined in the past couple of years. They know the feeling of arriving somewhere new and they try to integrate everyone from the start.”
“Winning helps a lot, of course,” Leo says with a smile. “But I think the manager and the staff have been important in creating that too. Mikel has built a team of humble players who work hard every day. If you have the right personalities together, it’s always going to click. That’s happened here.”
“The manager tried to help me as much as possible in my early days here. He gave me a clear indication of how he wanted to play, of how he saw me in these roles. That helped me to settle, just as my teammates have.”
“We have a great atmosphere in the team. If anyone is ever a bit down in the dressing room, some of the squad will go over and speak to them. It’s just like a big family really.”
“All the players are happy with the team. We want to win every game and that’s what we’re competing for.”
“There’s more depth and, with how we compete, everyone has to be at the top of their game. Otherwise, they know they won’t be playing. That’s how you strive for greatness. We have such a good group at the moment, not only on the field but also off the field, and that helps a lot to perform.”
