Latest Mikel Arteta comments hint that past problem with one ‘not happy’ Arsenal star could re-emerge

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Mikel Arteta has now confessed that one Arsenal player has had an issue with his status in the squad. 

Arsenal have a competitive squad, with plenty of players competing for positions across the pitch. 

Several players have slipped down the pecking order this season, with Oleksandr Zinchenko now seemingly behind Myles Lewis-Skelly following the latter’s break out from the Hale End academy.

There is also plenty of competition for game time in the attacking roles at the Emirates Stadium, with Mikel Arteta having to juggle the game time of numerous forwards. 

Leandro Trossard is one such player who has been in and out of the starting XI because of this.

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Mikel Arteta makes honest Leandro Trossard confession

Speaking ahead of the Gunners’ clash with Brentford, as quoted by the official Arsenal website, Arteta addressed Trossard’s role in the squad.

The Spanish coach confessed that the Belgian attacker has not always been entirely satisfied with his game time at Arsenal, and that the player is unafraid to express his concerns.

Arteta said: “They all want to play, always want to play. Leo, I think in the last 12 months, a lot more consistency, he’s deserved that. He’s had a lot of competition in his position so, that’s it, raise the level.

“Leo, naturally, is a little bit of a moaner but I like that because he’s very competitive!… He always wants to be the best and when he’s not there, he’s not happy but that really pushes him.”

With Bukayo Saka having now undergone surgery and set for an extended spell on the sidelines, Trossard will likely enjoy a lengthy run in the regular starting XI. The pressure is now on the 30-year-old to deliver.

The rift between Arteta and Trossard at Arsenal

Arteta and Trossard have clashed in the past, with a rift forming between the pair over the attacker’s frustrations with his level of involvement. 

Whilst Trossard has insisted that he now enjoys a good relationship with Arteta, there is always the danger that their connection could break down again. 

The manager’s comments certainly suggest that this is a possibility, and he will have to be cautious to ensure that Trossard does not become disenchanted at the Emirates Stadium.