What began as a season of high expectations for Arsenal, aiming to challenge for the Premier League title, is rapidly unraveling into a fight just to secure a top-four finish. Mikel Arteta’s side has endured a shaky start, sitting fourth in the table and nine points adrift of league leaders Liverpool.
To make matters worse, Arsenal faces potential selection issues ahead of their clash with Nottingham Forest. Alongside Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, and Ben White, Leandro Trossard could also miss the match after picking up an injury while playing for Belgium. However, the 29-year-old’s recent performances have been underwhelming, and speculation suggests that his days as a regular starter at the Emirates may be numbered.
### Arsenal Eyeing Raphinha as a Trossard Upgrade
Reports from Spain indicate Arsenal’s interest in Barcelona winger Raphinha, who has become a hot commodity among Europe’s elite clubs. While Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is reportedly reluctant to part ways with one of his top players, the Brazilian could be available for around €90m (£75m), a price Arsenal is said to be considering.
Given Raphinha’s exceptional skill set, he could be the ideal replacement for Trossard, providing the Gunners with a more dynamic option on the left wing. While it would be a significant financial commitment, the move could be well worth it for Arsenal.
### Comparing Raphinha and Trossard
If Arsenal secures Raphinha, he would likely slot into the left-wing position, given Bukayo Saka’s undroppable status on the right. But how does the Barcelona star stack up against Trossard?
#### **Key Stats Comparison** (Per 90 Minutes)
| **Metric** | **Raphinha** | **Trossard** |
|——————————-|————-|————-|
| Non-Penalty Expected G+A | 1.13 | 0.43 |
| Actual Non-Penalty G+A | 1.08 | 0.31 |
| Progressive Passes | 4.58 | 4.22 |
| Progressive Carries | 3.00 | 2.50 |
| Shots | 3.08 | 2.17 |
| Shots on Target | 1.25 | 0.62 |
| Key Passes | 3.67 | 1.56 |
| Passes into Final Third | 3.08 | 1.56 |
| Passes into Penalty Area | 1.67 | 1.56 |
| Shot-Creating Actions | 5.83 | 3.10 |
| Goal-Creating Actions | 1.08 | 0.15 |
| Successful Take-Ons | 1.42 | 0.50 |
Raphinha outshines Trossard across nearly all key metrics, from goal contributions to creative actions and offensive progression. Since the start of last season, Raphinha has tallied 22 goals and 23 assists in 54 appearances, averaging a goal involvement every 1.2 games. In contrast, Trossard has managed 19 goals and three assists in 61 games, averaging a goal involvement every 2.77 games.
### Why Arsenal Must Move for Raphinha
While Trossard remains a skilled player capable of contributing to Arsenal’s squad, Raphinha’s numbers highlight his superiority. His ability to create, score, and progress the ball makes him a transformational addition to the Gunners’ attack.
Given Arsenal’s ambitions to return to the top of English football, investing in a player of Raphinha’s caliber—despite the hefty price tag—could be a decisive move. If the opportunity arises in January or the summer, Arsenal must act swiftly to bring the Brazilian star to the Emirates.
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