Evaluating Viktor Gyokeres’ Arsenal Performance: Ten Matches, Three Goals

Overview

Arsenal has delivered a commendable performance in the early part of the season, securing victories in eight out of their ten initial games. However, for newcomer Viktor Gyokeres, the transition has been a bit more challenging.

Gyokeres’ Struggles in Early Season

Following an impressive start with three goals in his first four appearances, the £64 million recruit has gone six games without finding the net. Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, noted the striker’s resilience, offering encouragement after a recent 2-0 victory over West Ham.

Gyokeres has logged 90 minutes in six of those ten matches, exceeding Arteta’s initial expectations, largely due to an injury to Kai Havertz, which limited the rotation options available to the coach.

Havertz is deemed a key player by Arteta, and had he been fit, he might have taken Gyokeres’ place in crucial away fixtures against rivals such as Liverpool – Arsenal’s sole loss this season – Newcastle, and Manchester United, both of which resulted in victories for the Gunners.

It’s worth mentioning that Gyokeres lacked a complete pre-season due to his transfer saga from Sporting and missed significant training sessions as he pushed for a move to London. Despite the pressing circumstances, Gyokeres is still seen as a vital signing, after scoring nearly one hundred goals in just over a hundred matches with Sporting in Portugal.

While his current scoring drought isn’t a major concern due to Arsenal’s overall success, Gyokeres was initially brought in to help the club secure its first trophy since 2020. Arteta has recognized Gyokeres’ effort and contribution to the team, often highlighting his work ethic during matches.

Following a game against Olympiacos, Arteta referred to Gyokeres’ performance as “exceptional,” praising his relentless energy on the pitch.

Tactical Adjustments for Gyokeres

The introduction of Gyokeres aims to create additional space for Arsenal’s range of offensive talent, including Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze, and Gabriel Martinelli. While there have been moments that showcase Gyokeres’ potential to link play, he will undoubtedly want to amplify his contributions after scoring only twice in these ten matches—one being a brace in the dominating 5-0 victory over Leeds and another in a 3-0 win against Nottingham Forest.

What Does the Data Reveal?

Arsenal’s strategy this season has been to facilitate quicker transitions and a more direct approach, partly to fully utilize Gyokeres’ unique strengths, which rely on penetrating defensive lines rather than dropping deep.

Observations show that Arsenal midfielders actively seek opportunities to release Gyokeres into spaces; he has had 23 chances but has only managed seven shots on target, including one from a penalty.

With the team previously struggling against tightly organized defenses last season, the new style aims to capitalize on the speed of play and create multiple scoring opportunities. Gyokeres netted one of his goals from a penalty, although it came after Saka had been substituted during the match against Leeds. Arteta acknowledged Gyokeres as the club’s top penalty taker in an interview yet chose Saka for a recently taken penalty against West Ham, hinting at the England international’s preference in such situations.

Saka, marking his 200th Premier League appearance for Arsenal, has expressed strong support for Gyokeres. After the match against West Ham, he stated, “I have confidence that Viktor will score goals,” praising his contributions and overall influence on the team.

Positive Indicators for Gyokeres’ Future Performance

While Gyokeres has encountered challenges, signs show that improvement is possible. He commenced the season behind in fitness due to an interrupted pre-season, and with Havertz’s absence, he has been thrust into action sooner than anticipated, which has at times halted his burgeoning chemistry with the midfield players.

Gyokeres is known for his relentless movement and willingness to find space as well as act as a link-up option when needed. Standing as an imposing figure amongst defenders, it is essential he adapts to the physical demands of the Premier League and finds ways to leverage his advantages in duels.

Discussion surrounding Gyokeres often highlights his mentality and determination, traits that could prove vital amid the high expectations surrounding his signing. His shirt sales skyrocketed after his transfer, reflecting the hope and anticipation from fans.

Notably, during a recent match against Olympiacos, teammates notably favored letting Gyokeres’ shot proceed to goal, which unfortunately struck the post but set the stage for a rebound score.

Although his playing style may not resemble that of some of the more flamboyant forwards in the league, his potential for effectiveness is clear. With Arsenal’s newfound direct approach complemented by his specific talents, Gyokeres possesses the foundation necessary for success. The pivotal inquiry remains whether he can fully capitalize on these opportunities.