Whether providing assists or scoring goals, Leandro Trossard is at the heart of Belgium’s play. Since the start of the World Cup, the forward has scored twice and provided two assists in five matches. Outstanding especially against New Zealand (5-1), delivering again against Senegal (round of 16, 3-2 a.e.t.) and the USA (4-1), he is expected to once again pose a real threat to the Spanish defence this Friday.
An important winger
It was obvious that after his season with Arsenal, Trossard was always going to be a key part of Belgium’s attack. Given the best possible conditions by his manager, the winger wasted no time in making a flying start to this international campaign. Having scored against Tunisia in a friendly, he continued to push his limits against opponents from across the Atlantic.
It’s fair to say he has stayed true to himself. He has shown real drive down the wing, dribbled well, made himself available, cut inside when needed, and read the game intelligently to be the best possible provider.
In doing so, he has turned his chances into a collective asset, while also acting as an architect of his team’s success. What’s more, he is present all over the pitch. His involvement helps Belgium’s attacks and provides extra support whenever the opportunity arises.
Dynamic, quick and effective, he’s not afraid to move around to maximise his chances. That makes him almost irreplaceable, given Belgium’s need for creativity.
Moreover, thanks to his experience (Trossard is 31), he brings confidence to the team. All of this comes with real commitment - something he demonstrates both on and off the pitch.
A pillar of the Belgian squad
He may not be captain like Youri Tielemans, or the spearhead of the Red Devils like Romelu Lukaku. But he still plays a crucial role within the Belgian squad. After the group stage match against New Zealand, Rudi Garcia openly admitted to RTBF Sport that Trossard’s importance is significant.
"The symbol of a team player who puts the team before himself is Leandro Trossard. I’m happy he scored two goals, that he thought a bit more about himself, because when he does, he’s actually thinking of us by scoring," he emphasised.
With 56 caps to his name, 50 appearances for Arsenal this season, and boundless energy, he advises and helps his teammates. Perhaps sometimes a little too much, judging by his clash with Tielemans during the cooling break against Senegal.
The two players did have a heated exchange while trailing 2-0. However, just a few minutes later, the midfielder sent his team into extra time, assisted by none other than Trossard. This 'disagreement' actually pleased Garcia.
"Leandro and Youri are two very important players for the Belgian squad. They wanted to win so badly! I don’t even know why they argued, but I like that," he declared at the press conference after the round of 16.
"I want players like that, who are ready to turn the table when things aren’t going well. Because on the pitch, that’s what you need. You need that fighting spirit."
Once again, proof that Trossard is essential to the progress of his national team. This Friday, he will try to upset the odds and help Belgium reach the semi-finals with victory over Spain.