Opinion: Could Arteta’s Left-Wing Loyalty Be Arsenal’s Downfall?

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·5 August 2025

Opinion: Could Arteta’s Left-Wing Loyalty Be Arsenal’s Downfall?

Mikel Arteta’s continued trust in Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard on the left wing is, in many ways, pressure he is placing on himself.

That much is clear, with tactical admissions continuing to surface about why the position needs refreshing.

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The latest of these comes from development coach Saul Isaksson-Hurst, who has long worked with Noni Madueke as a personal trainer.

Martinelli and Trossard under tactical scrutiny

While championing his client for a shot at the left wing, Isaksson-Hurst has made bold claims that cast doubt over both Martinelli and Trossard’s suitability for the role.

He says:

“Martinelli, for me, is a really good transition player, maybe not so good in a low block, beating those players. Trossard’s really good in those 1v1s, but can’t run beyond.”

As cited by YouTube, these comments help explain why Arsenal struggled to consistently break down teams in a low block last season. They also contribute to the idea that Arsenal are overly reliant on their right-hand side, with their current left-wing options each lacking a key trait needed to consistently penetrate defences.

With a Bukayo Saka-like winger on the left, at least half of those 14 league draws could arguably have been converted into wins.

Trossard (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Time to rethink the left flank?

While Madueke’s coach goes on to describe his client as a hybrid of Trossard and Martinelli, it could be argued Arsenal should have been bolder in pursuing a long-term solution for the left wing.

It is a position that continues to leave some Gooners uneasy, and it is surprising Arteta remains so confident in his current options that he has reportedly placed a “not for sale” tag on both.

It has been claimed he is happy to keep Trossard, while Martinelli is considered untouchable. Interestingly though, Trossard is stalling on signing Arsenal’s contract offer.

Either way, Arteta is placing his trust in the pair next season – a decision that could have serious consequences if the tactical balance does not improve.

At best, after signing Viktor Gyokeres, Arteta should also have ensured he recruited a natural left winger.

Madueke may present himself as an option, but questions remain over his suitability on that flank. For many, he is seen as Saka’s back-up, and he too will have to reach the required level on the right.

Are your fears growing over Arsenal’s left flank?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

Daniel O

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