‘STUBBORN’ – Mikel Arteta finds one first-team player hard to manage because of his attitude

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has dealt with big egos since his return to the club as a manager in December 2019, successfully managing players who are difficult to accommodate. One such player is reportedly in his current squad, and the Spaniard has handled him effortlessly.

From Mesut Ozil to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to Alexandre Lacazette and Matteo Guendouzi, Arteta has shown ruthlessness and authority to ensure the situation does not affect the team spirit, unity, and culture he has been building since becoming the manager of the club. This approach has paid off, and the club is enjoying relatively harmonious cohesion among the players, management, and supporters.

Leandro Trossard is rumoured to be a very stubborn player, which occasionally has led to differences of opinion with Arteta, but their relationship has significantly improved, according to reports. The 29-year-old fell out with Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi in January 2023 after he reportedly left the training ground when he was informed he would not play against Middlesbrough in the FA Cup, which resulted in his transfer to Arsenal.

Arteta has meticulously built a squad capable of rivalling Manchester City, and one crucial aspect has been signing players with the right character. However, not everything has been smooth sailing for Arsenal, with Trossard reportedly presenting some challenges for Arteta.

Leandro Trossard (Image Credit: Getty Images)

Initially signed after Arsenal’s prolonged pursuit of Mykhailo Mudryk fell through, Trossard has proven to be a valuable acquisition. The Belgian, who joined for £27 million, has been instrumental over the past 18 months, scoring critical goals, including a winner at Old Trafford that kept Arsenal in the title hunt until the last matchday.

According to The Times, Trossard’s stubborn nature sometimes created friction with Arteta behind the scenes. However, any issues between them appear to be resolved now, especially as Trossard has enjoyed a more consistent role in the team in recent months.

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand expressed surprise at Trossard’s impact at Arsenal, noting that only Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka have scored more league goals this season. Despite occasional management challenges, Trossard’s demanding nature may ultimately benefit the squad, pushing them to strive for greater achievements.

Mikel Arteta also praised Trossard’s skill sets and called him “little magician” after his outstanding performance against Wolves in April. “Trossard, great player. He’s a little magician,” Arteta said. “He can score on any surface and he’s a big threat; so composed, so cool, he can play in different positions. It’s just a joy to have him in the team. I think the timing of the first goal was really helpful as well. [I am ] really happy.”

Arsenal are also set to hold talks with the Belgian over extending his contract after an outstanding season in north London.