Mikel Arteta faces key decision who to start vs Atlético Madrid but one choice is clear

Now that we're out of April, Arsenal fans are dreaming of a memorable May for the history books. On Saturday, the Gunners extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table to six points, albeit having played two games more, courtesy of a resounding 3-0 victory over Fulham. Viktor Gyökeres bagging a brace, while back in the side Bukayo Saka netted at the Emirates for the first time since 3 December.

So now, attention turns to the second leg of Arsenal's Champions League semi-final on Tuesday. Having drawn 1-1 at the Metropolitano last mid-week, it is winner takes all when Atlético Madrid visit North London. Ahead of the weekend win over Fulham, Arteta made five changes, rotating his lineup more than usual. While Piero Hincapié and Martín Zubimendi are highly likely to come straight back into the XI following a much-needed breather, Arteta does have a decision to make on the left-wing.

After scoring seven goals during the first half of the campaign, Leandro Trossard has been little more than a peripheral figure in 2026. His last goal came during the demolition of Aston Villa on 30 December, failing to net across 24 appearances subsequently.

Saturday though saw Trossard start a Premier League game for the first time since 1 March against Chelsea, and he looked substantially sharper than he has for a while.

Leandro Trossard's statistics vs Fulham

Note: All statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt.

The statistics support the eye test that Trossard was exceptional on Saturday evening. He had four shots, the joint-most alongside Gyökeres, created two big chances, and won all eight ground duels he contested. The most eye-catching number though is the fact that the Belgian was successful with all six of his attempted take-ons. Considering how sterile the Gunners' attacking player often is, having a player capable of beating a defender one vs one could be invaluable.

So, should the 31 year old keep his place for the visit of los Colchoneros? Well, Arteta often favours Gabriel Martinelli in big matches, given the Brazilian's off the ball work rate, which is pretty second to none, even if his end product is widely scrutinised.

Martinelli does also have six Champions League goals to his name this season, becoming the first-ever Arsenal player to net in five successive appearances in the competition. However, he has only scored against Portsmouth, Kairat and Wigan since 10 December, so is hardly in red hot form either.

It is also obvious that a front three of Noni Madueke, Gyökeres and Martinelli does not work together, given that all three members of the trio want to do similar things. Saka's return means we're unlikely to see a repeat of that on Tuesday. Nevertheless, with Eberechi Eze deputising for Martin Ødegaard as the number ten, Trossard provides the balance Arteta will be looking for in such a huge game.

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