Everton and England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has heaped praise on Arsenal forward Leandro Trossard following the Belgian’s outstanding performance in yesterday’s highly competitive encounter.
Despite being on the opposing side, Pickford was full of admiration for Trossard’s intelligence, movement, and match-winning influence, admitting that the Arsenal attacker caused constant problems throughout the game.
Speaking after the final whistle, Pickford highlighted Trossard as one of the standout players on the pitch, describing him as “one of those attackers you can never afford to switch off against.” The Everton goalkeeper acknowledged that while Arsenal boast several top-quality attacking options, it was Trossard’s sharpness and unpredictability that made life particularly difficult for the Everton defence.
“Trossard was excellent,” Pickford said. “He’s very clever with his movement, finds pockets of space really well, and he’s calm when it matters. As a goalkeeper, those are the players you’re always aware of because they can hurt you in so many different ways.”
Trossard’s performance was a perfect illustration of why he has become such a valuable asset for Mikel Arteta’s side. Operating across the front line, the Belgian international drifted intelligently between the lines, linked play smoothly, and repeatedly forced Everton into defensive reshuffles. His ability to combine quick decision-making with technical quality ensured Arsenal maintained a cutting edge in the final third.
Pickford also praised Trossard’s work rate, noting that his contribution went beyond attacking flair. “What impressed me most is how hard he works for the team,” the England number one added. “He tracks back, presses well, and doesn’t give defenders or goalkeepers a second to settle. That kind of effort makes a huge difference at the top level.”
For Arsenal, Trossard’s display once again underlined his importance in big matches. Since arriving at the Emirates Stadium, he has built a reputation for stepping up in crucial moments, whether as a starter or coming off the bench. His versatility allows Arteta to deploy him in multiple attacking roles, a quality that continues to frustrate opponents who struggle to pin him down.
The praise from Pickford carries extra weight given the goalkeeper’s experience at both club and international level. Having faced some of the world’s best attackers in the Premier League and on the global stage, Pickford’s assessment reflects the respect Trossard has earned across the league.
“Trossard is a top player, simple as that,” Pickford continued. “You see his composure, his awareness, and how he reads the game. He makes the right decisions more often than not, and that’s what separates very good players from the best ones.”
Arsenal fans will no doubt be delighted to hear such words from an opposition player, especially one as respected as Pickford. The Belgian’s form has been a major boost for the Gunners as they continue to push for success domestically, and performances like yesterday’s only strengthen his growing influence within the squad.
As the season progresses, Trossard’s consistency will be crucial to Arsenal’s ambitions. If he continues to deliver displays that earn praise from rivals as well as teammates, there is little doubt he will remain one of the Premier League’s most underrated yet decisive attackers.
For Pickford, the admiration was clear, even in defeat. For Trossard, it was another reminder that his impact is being noticed at the highest level — not just by supporters and pundits, but by the very opponents tasked with stopping him.