Although Viktor Gyökeres scored 3 goals in the first 4 games of the season to demonstrate his instant impact, a subsequent 6-game goal drought has put the £64m man under scrutiny. After Arsenal’s 2-0 win over West Ham United, manager Mikel Arteta made a point of giving him a hug, using his actions to show recognition for his favourite player.
Due to Kai Havertz’s absence with a knee injury – which disrupted the team’s rotation plan – Gyökeres has played the full 90 minutes in six matches, far exceeding the coaching staff’s original schedule. Had it not been for the German international’s injury withdrawal, Havertz would have originally started in top-tier clashes against the likes of Liverpool, Newcastle United and Manchester United.
Protracted transfer negotiations with Sporting CP this summer meant Gyökeres missed out on systematic pre-season preparations. However, his record of 97 goals in 102 games during his time at Sporting CP is more than enough to prove his immediate competitiveness. While his current goal drought has not halted the Gunners’ winning streak, the entire squad is hoping he can become the key piece of the puzzle to end the club’s four-year trophy drought.
Arteta has publicly praised the Swede’s professionalism on multiple occasions, and specifically noted after the match against Olympiacos that “his off-the-ball movement sets an example”. To unlock the potential of their record signing, the Gunners have intentionally strengthened their tactic of direct passes from midfield this season, aiming to leverage his ability to find spaces in the gaps of the opposition’s defence. Statistics show that he has been presented with 23 goalscoring chances in 10 games, but his efficiency – with only 7 shots on target (including 1 penalty) – still needs improvement.
Teammates have continuously conveyed messages of trust. Bukayo Saka recently admitted: “His tactical value goes far beyond his goalscoring statistics.” Despite a rocky start, Gyökeres has consistently maintained high morale. With his gradual adaptation to the rhythm of the Premier League and deepening understanding with teammates, this Nordic striker is expected to deliver performances that match his price tag.
