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Emmanuel Petit Urges Arsenal to Keep Trossard, Calls for Major Squad Reshuffle

Emmanuel Petit Urges Arsenal to Keep Trossard, Calls for Major Squad Reshuffle

Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has advised manager Mikel Arteta to retain Leandro Trossard while sanctioning the departures of several attacking players as the club continues its squad rebuild.

Petit believes Arsenal still need more quality in wide attacking areas and has urged the club to strengthen with two new wingers and a striker if they are to remain competitive at the highest level.

Speaking to talkSPORT, the former France international identified Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, and Noni Madueke as players Arsenal should consider moving on from.

"I think it's easy to know what Arsenal are missing, for me it is wingers," Petit said.

"For me, the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus. I don't know about Viktor Gyokeres because he just came into the club."

While questioning the futures of several attackers, Petit was clear about one player he believes should remain at the Emirates Stadium.

"Leandro Trossard, I would keep him."

The Belgian international has often been viewed as one of Arsenal's most reliable squad players, regularly contributing important goals and assists despite not always being a guaranteed starter.

Petit was particularly critical of Noni Madueke, insisting the England international has not done enough to justify a long-term place in the squad.

"But Noni Madueke, for me, isn't good enough. I'm sorry to say that, but he must do much more than that to improve."

The comments come as Arsenal continue to assess their options ahead of the new season, with Arteta expected to make further adjustments to his squad following another campaign of high expectations.

Should Arsenal Listen to Petit?

Petit’s assessment reflects a growing debate among Arsenal supporters about the balance and effectiveness of the club's attack.

While Martinelli, Jesus, and Madueke all possess undeniable talent, consistency has often been a concern. Injuries, fluctuating form, and competition for places have prevented some of Arsenal's attackers from fully establishing themselves as indispensable starters.

Trossard, meanwhile, has earned a reputation for delivering when called upon. Whether starting or coming off the bench, the Belgian has repeatedly shown his ability to influence games with goals, creativity, and intelligent movement. Those qualities make him a valuable asset in a squad competing on multiple fronts.

However, selling multiple attackers would only make sense if Arsenal can secure significant upgrades. Petit’s suggestion that the club needs two wingers and a striker underlines the scale of the challenge facing Arteta and the recruitment team.

Ultimately, Arsenal's transfer decisions will depend on the club's long-term vision, available targets, and financial considerations. But one thing is clear: as expectations continue to rise at the Emirates, every position in the squad will be scrutinized, and only those capable of consistently delivering at the highest level are likely to remain part of Arteta's plans.

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