One Arsenal player has become a talking point over the international break, putting pressure on his manager.
The second break of the season is almost over, with the majority of Arsenal players on international duty having one game remaining before returning to North London.
Jurrien Timber impressed for the Netherlands and will be one of the first to return to Colney, where he’ll surely watch what unfolds for his teammates in the remaining fixtures.
On Monday night, Belgium face Wales, a match that Leandro Trossard is expected to be a part of, which isn’t exactly what fans want to see.
Belgium manager Rudi Garcia defends Leandro Trossard selection
Trossard had an average game against North Macedonia, as Belgium struggled to get the win against the side ranked 63rd in the world.
It was a lacklustre result for Belgium, making their clash with Wales in Cardiff all the more important.
Ahead of the showdown in South Wales, Belgium manager Rudi Garcia was asked to comment on the criticism he’s received about his decisions in attack.
Reporters in the press conference focused on Michy Batshuayi not being used, as Trossard started at centre-forward ahead of the former Chelsea striker and Lois Openda.
“From time to time, some of you make me laugh,” Garcia replied.
“When a player is on the list, he shouldn’t be there. And the same player should have been included, even though you didn’t even want him.”
The Belgium manager made it clear that his squad selections are made based on what he sees behind the scenes, which explains Trossard’s start up front against North Macedonia.
“I make my choices based on what I see. When you win, you’re always right, and when you don’t win, it’s the coach’s lot. Everyone becomes a coach in those moments. I have enough experience not to pay attention to it and stay focused on the next match.”
Trossard failed to impress during the September international break, but his manager is remaining firm on his decision when and where to award starts.
Trossard is in the same situation for club and country
Garcia could probably benefit from a conversation with Mikel Arteta right now, who has also been charmed by Trossard this season.
Though Trossard has flattered to deceive in moments, the Arsenal manager has shown full trust in the forward, handing the Belgian three consecutive Premier League starts.
Despite fans of Belgium and some of Arsenal wanting to see Trossard utilised more as a bench option, the player’s run in the starting XI only suggests how impressive he must be in training.
Having a player of the 30-year-old’s quality in either squad is a blessing that some are perhaps taking for granted; however, at international level, the winger needs to step up, having not scored for his country in over a year.
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