Leandro Trossard’s move from Brighton to Arsenal in January 2023 came amid a dramatic fallout between the Belgian winger and then-Seagulls manager Roberto De Zerbi. Having enjoyed four fruitful years on the south coast, the relationship between player and coach deteriorated rapidly after disagreements over training behaviour and match involvement.
De Zerbi publicly accused Trossard of leaving a training session without permission and claimed the forward had been left out due to a lack of commitment. The Italian stated at the time that only players willing to give “100 per cent” would feature under him, suggesting Trossard’s approach had fallen short of expectations. His comments fueled speculation of internal unrest and created a rift that appeared beyond repair.
Trossard, however, firmly rejected those claims through his agent, who insisted the winger had been managing a calf issue known to the medical staff. The agent accused De Zerbi of freezing out Trossard and humiliating him in front of teammates, ultimately forcing him to seek a transfer. The Belgian camp argued that communication had broken down completely, leaving a move as the only viable solution.
Accusations and Fallout: What Led to the Trossard Exit
According to Trossard’s representatives, strained relations began shortly after the 2022 World Cup. A minor training-ground clash allegedly triggered weeks of silence from De Zerbi, creating what the player’s camp described as a toxic working environment. Despite remaining available for selection and starting in matches against Southampton and Arsenal, Trossard was reportedly benched without explanation against Everton and excluded from substitutions.
The situation escalated ahead of Brighton’s FA Cup fixture against Middlesbrough. Trossard, having reported calf discomfort on multiple occasions, was said to have ended a training session with medical approval — a claim that sharply contradicted the manager’s version. Matters worsened when De Zerbi allegedly instructed the winger to train separately and later informed him publicly that he was no longer wanted.
Feeling disrespected and convinced that trust had been irreparably broken, Trossard’s camp pressed for a transfer. They argued that cooperation from the club was necessary for both parties to move forward positively. With tensions at their peak and opportunities dwindling under the Italian coach, a January exit became inevitable.
Trossard Move to Arsenal: A Fresh Start in North London
Arsenal acted swiftly to secure the Belgian’s services, completing a £27 million deal as part of Mikel Arteta’s push for attacking depth during the 2022/23 Premier League title race. The transfer was viewed as a shrewd move by the Gunners, who admired Trossard’s Premier League experience, versatility and creativity.
The Belgian hit the ground running at the Emirates, quickly establishing himself as a reliable option capable of delivering goals, assists and moments of inspiration. Initially used primarily as a high-impact substitute, Trossard embraced his role, earning praise for his tactical intelligence and team-first mentality. His composure and technical quality added balance and unpredictability to Arsenal’s frontline.
For Brighton, the departure signalled the end of a productive era with a player who had been central to their rise. For Arsenal, it marked the arrival of a mature, Premier League-ready performer contributing to their push toward domestic and European ambitions.
From Supersub to Key Figure Under Arteta
Though recognised early as a game-changing substitute, Trossard has increasingly grown into a starting role under Arteta. His ability to play across the front line, combined with his work rate and decision-making, has made him invaluable in high-stakes matches. His performance in Arsenal’s narrow 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace — helping maintain the club’s standing at the top of the Premier League table — highlighted his evolved status in the squad.
Arteta’s faith in Trossard has paid dividends. The Belgian’s contributions extend beyond goals and assists; his link-up play, tactical discipline and knack for finding dangerous spaces have made him a trusted figure in key moments. His continuous development reflects both individual commitment and the coaching environment at Arsenal.
As the club pushes for major honours, Trossard’s growing influence adds depth and experience to a largely young attacking contingent. His journey from unsettled talent to confident leader is becoming one of the squad’s understated success stories.
“I’m Really Happy Here”: New Life and Love at Arsenal
Reflecting on his Arsenal journey earlier this year, Trossard expressed gratitude for the support he has received since arriving in North London. From the first day, he said, the warmth from fans, teammates and staff helped him quickly settle and rediscover his joy for football. That affection has inspired him to repay supporters with passion, effort and decisive performances.
He described hearing his name chanted at the Emirates as “the best feeling in the world,” adding that the connection with fans motivates him to give his best every matchday. Trossard also spoke of the pride he feels representing a club where supporters and tradition form the core of its identity. The emotional bond, he said, pushes him not just to perform but to leave a legacy.
For Trossard, the Arsenal chapter represents not only a sporting revival but a personal renewal. Free from the turmoil of his exit from Brighton and embraced in his new environment, he believes he has found both happiness and purpose — a combination driving his continued rise at the club.
