That goal came after youngsters and senior figures alike watched him respond emphatically to a summer of speculation, and it underlined the reward of patience and belief from sporting director Andrea Berta and manager Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal travelled to the Stadium of Light expecting all three points, but despite the 2-2 scoreline, there was a tangible silver lining in Trossard's performance. Sunderland had taken the lead through Daniel Ballard and then Arsenal levelled via Bukayo Saka. Trossard then put Arsenal ahead before they were pegged back by Brian Brobbey in the 94th minute.

Earlier in the summer there had been credible reports that Saudi club Al-Ittihad were ready to offer around 25 million ponds for Trossard, including a loan fee and an obligation to buy, Arsenal, however, chose to reject the approach and kept faith in the Belgium international, agreeing improved terms on his existing contract that still runs until the summer of 2026.

Speaking on international duty last month, Trossard addressed the transfer talk head-on: "There are always rumours like that. Leaving was never really an option. I feel very good at Arsenal," he said. "At the beginning of the season I struggled a bit with an injury. I think those rumours were there because of the lack of minutes.

"I've been playing a lot the last few weeks, doing my thing and I feel good about that."

That statement now carries extra weight. Trossard has started the 2025-26 campaign making 14 appearances in all competitions, with four goals (two in the Premier League) and three assists. His adaptability, switching roles, drifting from the wing into central positions and supplying in key moments, has made him a quiet but significant asset for Arteta.

For Berta and Arsenal it may have looked like a gamble not to cash in on a 30-year-old with potentially a hefty return. But the case for retention has been strengthened not just by the goal at Sunderland but by his emerging role in the team's evolution. Goals in a title race, after all, can count for more than immediate transfer profit, and so far, the gamble is paying off.

Leandro Trossard's turnaround pays off big time for Arsenal