Arteta Reveals Why Belgian Star Missed Champions League Clash

Leandro Trossard missed Arsenal’s Champions League draw with Bayer Leverkusen after failing to prove his fitness despite training with the squad on Tuesday.

The Belgian winger was forced off in the first half of Arsenal’s FA Cup victory over Mansfield Town last weekend, raising concerns about his availability for the crucial European tie.

Mikel Arteta had initially downplayed the severity of the issue, and Trossard participated in training on Tuesday morning. However, the 31-year-old was still experiencing discomfort and was ultimately left out of the travelling squad to Germany.

“Yes he trained yesterday but he wasn’t comfortable to play,” Arteta explained. “He said he was still feeling something. You need at this level to play 100% and he wasn’t.”

Havertz Steps Up in Absence

In Trossard’s absence, Arsenal secured a valuable 1-1 draw at the BayArena, leaving the Gunners in a strong position ahead of the second leg at Emirates Stadium.

Robert Andrich had given the hosts the lead with a header from a corner shortly after half-time, but Kai Havertz came off the bench to equalise with an 89th-minute penalty.

The German forward’s return to his former club proved emotional and decisive. Havertz spent ten years at Leverkusen before departing for Chelsea in 2020, and received a warm reception from the home supporters when he entered the match.

After a lengthy VAR review confirmed the penalty decision, Havertz kept his composure to slot home the crucial equaliser, much to Arteta’s admiration.

“Yes how composed he took it,” Arteta said. “And yes, football is a funny game and it brings special stories. Him coming back here after such a long time, being part of this club, to come here and score such an important goal, I think it’s a big moment.”

Strong Position for Second Leg

The draw puts Arsenal in an excellent position to progress to the Champions League quarter-finals. With the second leg to be played at Emirates Stadium, the Gunners will be confident of finishing the job in front of their home supporters.

Trossard’s fitness will be closely monitored ahead of that crucial return fixture. The Belgian has been an important player for Arsenal this season, contributing goals and assists across multiple competitions.

The club will hope the extra time between now and the second leg allows Trossard to fully recover from his knock, giving Arteta his full squad available for what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the last-16 tie.