Evaluating Viktor Gyokeres' Arsenal Start: 10 Games, Three Goals

Viktor Gyokeres during play for Arsenal

Arsenal have made an impressive beginning to the campaign, securing victories in 8 of their first 10 games, however it has not been quite as easy for new forward the Swedish attacker.

After 3 scores during his initial 4 matches, this £64m acquisition has not scored for six consecutive games, with manager the Spanish tactician saying he offered the Sweden striker a hug following Saturday's two-nil win over the Hammers in recognition of his contributions.

Game Minutes and Squad Dynamics

The Swedish striker has featured for full matches across six of Arsenal's opening ten matches - beyond Arteta planned for, with the knee injury affecting the German midfielder restricting the ability the manager possesses to rest the Swedish international.

The German player represents one of Arteta's most trusted players and exists a case to be had that Havertz would have been selected in place of the Swedish striker during big road fixtures versus Liverpool - Arsenal's sole loss of the season - the Magpies and the Red Devils, games that they won.

There is also the fact Gyokeres didn't have a full summer preparation prior to joining, and skipped team training at Sporting when he attempted to secure a transfer to north London.

Scoring History and Expectations

But Gyokeres represents a win-now addition, that notched ninety-seven goals in one hundred two games with Sporting in his two campaigns at the Portuguese club.

His drought in goals are not a problem since Arsenal are securing victories currently, yet he represents a player who was signed in to get the squad across the finish line while they try to secure their first title since 2020.

Coach's Viewpoint & Squad Integration

Arteta has demonstrated recognition for the striker's work rate during the opening games and showered praise on the striker regarding his work that often goes unnoticed when the chance has presented itself.

Following the Gunners' win over the Greek side, he called the striker's performance "exceptional" while commended the player's "effort level".

When Arsenal signed the Swedish international, there was a belief his inclusion would create opportunities for the various offensive talents the team possess behind him including the Norwegian captain, the English winger, the creative midfielder and the Brazilian forward.

Statistical Breakdown

The striker's attempt locations this season

Arsenal have altered their style this campaign to move possession through midfield more quickly while have adjusted their strategy to become more direct.

This represents partially to extract the maximum out of Gyokeres, that doesn't attempt to drift into midfield to link play like the German, rather his strength is felt to be running through both defenders toward the space in behind.

Observing the Gunners this season, one can notice the midfielders are attempting for the ball that could free the striker for opportunities.

This is shown in the 23 chances Gyokeres has had, but he has merely mustered 7 shots on target with those chances across 10 games, including one being from the penalty spot.

Tactical Adjustments and Team Support

Arsenal struggled to break down sides in a defensive setup last season when they fell away during the championship pursuit, so their revised style is designed to hurt opponents while maintaining tempo.

Arsenal are also delivering crosses the ball with increased frequency to generate more chances.

Among Gyokeres' three scores so far originated from the penalty spot but that was when Saka had already been replaced in the 5-0 win against Leeds.

The manager said Gyokeres is the top spot-kick specialist in the squad in an interview for the sports network, but the duty fell to Saka who assumed the spot-kick during the victory against the Hammers while both were present on the pitch, implying the England attacker could be first choice to take them this season.

Squad Member Support and Confidence

Saka, who made his 200th English top flight appearance with the Gunners during the victory on Saturday, has expressed confidence in Gyokeres to thrive.

"I think Gyokeres' performing really, really well," the Englishman said after the match with West Ham.

"Without question he will score goals. What he's bringing to this team, we as his colleagues, we are extremely appreciative of what he delivers - the manner he holds the ball, how he makes movements, the danger he provides the team.

"He represents a significant component of the reason we're winning these games. His goals will come. We know that, we're confident and we have faith in him. I don't believe there's any doubts. He remains positive, he continues to be content and he's consistently giving maximum effort each match."

Future Prospects Regarding The Striker

It is fair to say it has not been the easiest of starts for Gyokeres, however that does not mean there aren't signs to show things will become improved.

The striker began the campaign attempting catch-up regarding his conditioning after an interrupted pre-season.

The German's injury has resulted in he has been thrust into situations sooner compared to perhaps planned - this has also caused the connections with creative players supporting him which haven't fully developed are being highlighted.

Gyokeres represents a willing movement maker while constantly looks for {space|g

Ronald Matthews
Ronald Matthews

A passionate mixologist with over a decade of experience in crafting unique cocktails and sharing expert tips on home bartending.