Arsenal star compared to Johan Cruyff but Mikel Arteta set to sanction Emirates Stadium exit

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Arsenal now have a period of rest and recovery before their huge Champions League semi-final first leg against PSG.

Arsenal’s disappointing performance in the 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace was far from ideal preparation for Mikel Arteta’s side.

Bukayo Saka was furious with Gabriel Martinelli for not squaring the ball in a late chance to win the game for the Gunners whilst David Raya and William Saliba both had uncharacteristic ‘off’ displays.

Thomas Partey impressed against Palace and Jakub Kiwior was once again outstanding on the night, whilst the other Arsenal goal scorer on the night has just been compared to footballing legend Johan Cruyff.

READ MORE: Major Arsenal flaw has just been publicly exposed by Premier League manager, PSG could take advantage

Leandro Trossard compared to Johan Cruyff

Leandro Trossard is set to start against PSG in the centre forward role following his excellent recent form that has seen the Belgian score three goals in his last two games.

As per the Athletic, Trossard’s recent finishes have been reminiscent of the Dutch great Cruyff with his ability to ‘fake shot’ and wriggle out of tight situations to manufacture a shooting opportunity.

Cruyff once stated: “I never did tricks. I saw something and it just came out. There was an opponent there and I had to outplay him. That was the easiest way.”

The Belgian’s latest strike against Crystal Palace was an example of just that as his first touch on the swivel enabled him to shift the ball to get the shot away and it found the bottom corner via a deflection.

Mikel Merino has been outstanding up top for the Gunners since moving into that role but Trossard’s agility and unpredictability might just be the weapon to open up PSG in the Champions League.

Leandro Trossard’s Arsenal future in doubt

It is thought that Arsenal could sell Trossard this summer in order to fund other signings with the likes of Viktor Gyokeres and Nico Williams high on Arteta’s wish list.

Arsenal were preparing contract talks with Trossard back in February but nothing has materialised yet and with his deal running out in June 2026, a decision on his future needs to be made soon.

Andrea Berta knows that he is in for a busy summer at the Emirates Stadium and Trossard will be one of the key agendas on his horizon.

Comparisons with Cruyff would indicate that the Belgian still has something to offer the Gunners but at almost 31 years of age, now could be the time to cash in for the club.