Arsenal star’s nephew scores in injury return, dreams of playing for Gunners
A familiar name appeared on the scoresheet in the Belgian provincial leagues this weekend as Lennert Trossard, nephew of Leandro Trossard, marked his return to football with a late equalizer for Stokkem VV B.
Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
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The 19-year-old winger scored within 10 minutes of coming off the bench in a 3-3 draw against Lindeboys Leutproducing a moment of individual quality that quickly drew comparisons to his famous uncle.
It was his first competitive goal after two years of absence due to injury.
“I scored after beating a few defenders by myself,” Lennert said. “I’ve been out for two seasons, but I definitely haven’t lost my feel for the ball. Maybe it’s a family affair.”
Stokkem had fallen behind twice before retaliating with a free kick from Mathijs Dewael and a penalty converted by Naud Warson. Trailing 3-2 at the end of the match, Lennert intervened in the 80th minute and immediately made his impact.
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“In the 88th minute, I took on two defenders with my dribble, then I slipped the ball between the goalkeeper’s legs. It made 3-3. It was a good point for us,” he said.
While his uncle scored in the Premier League and on the international stage, Lennert rebuilt his career at local level after a serious groin tear disrupted his development in his mid-teens.
“I played football until U15 in Stokkem then two seasons for the now defunct Bregel Sport,” he added. “After that I suffered a serious tear in my groin and was out for two full seasons. It was obviously very tough. This summer I put my shoes back on with Stokkem. I haven’t lost touch. Maybe it’s a family trait.”
When asked about the similarities between the two beyond the shared last name, Lennert spoke openly about his ambition.
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“Yes, I also want to reach the top,” Lennert said. “Maybe even play for Arsenal one day. The experience at this level must be incredible. I’m also a quick and skilful little winger. I can play on either flank and I can finish quite well.”
He also spoke with pride about Leandro’s rise over the past few seasons, while noting that regular contact between the extended family has faded.
“I’ll be 20 in three months, so over the next few months I really want to learn as much as I can from coach Davy Schetz and my teammates,” he said. “I’ve also seen how much Leandro has improved in recent seasons. He’s made huge progress at Arsenal.
“Am I proud of him? Absolutely. Is he an example? Absolutely. For me and for my brother Leroy, who plays for Stokkem’s under-15s. But we don’t really have any contact with Leandro anymore.”
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For now, Lennert’s focus remains on rebuilding his career step by step after a long absence from the game.
“I’m currently looking for a job. But I’m a nice, respectful guy with a green thumb, so it’s okay.”
His uncle, meanwhile, has six goals and five assists this season in 17 appearances, averaging a goal or assist every 90 minutes.