Is Viktor Gyokeres the Key to Arsenal's Title Challenge?
The Gunners' forward has been under scrutiny since joining, but his impact on the team's performance is undeniable. With six of his eight league goals coming against newly-promoted sides, Gyokeres has proven his ability to break down low-block defenses, a crucial skill for Arsenal's title challenge.
Last season, Arsenal dropped points away at Everton, but Gyokeres' penalty spot goal secured the win this time around. While scoring against newly-promoted sides is impressive, it doesn't diminish the significance of his goals, as Sunderland has been a surprise package this season.
However, Gyokeres' league goals have only earned Arsenal two points. Only three of his 13 goals in all competitions have changed the game's momentum, with notable openings against Burnley, Everton, and Kairat.
Before signing, Gyokeres faced criticism as a 'flat-track bully,' primarily scoring against lower-ranked Portuguese teams. According to Opta, he averaged 1.18 goals per game in the Primeira Liga in 2024-25, but only managed two goals in eight games against top-five sides, while 17 of his 39 goals (43.6%) came in seven games against the bottom four.
Despite his style not being visually appealing, Gyokeres' impact can be significant. Arteta now has Gabriel Jesus and Havertz to complement him, and his influence can also come from the bench. He has scored three goals from six shots in seven games as a substitute, compared to 10 goals from 55 shots in 25 games as a starter.
Gyokeres was signed for his goal-scoring ability and to create space for his teammates. Despite personal struggles, his impact has been proven right. Arsenal has a better win percentage (84%) and concedes fewer goals when he starts.
Arteta praises Gyokeres' mental strength and resilience, highlighting his focus on the present and genuine willingness to help the team. He emphasizes the responsibility and expectations that come with wearing the Arsenal shirt, and the importance of stability and self-improvement.
Despite the scrutiny, Gyokeres' goal record and the significance of his number 14, made famous by Thierry Henry, have added to the pressure. Arteta acknowledges the difficulty in understanding Gyokeres' emotions, but appreciates his stability and self-demand.
As the season progresses, Gyokeres' role in Arsenal's success becomes increasingly crucial, and his ability to find the net puts him in a strong position to contribute significantly to the team's title challenge.
