Evaluating Viktor Gyokeres' Gunners Opening: 10 Games, Three Scores

Viktor Gyokeres in action for the Gunners

Arsenal have enjoyed a strong beginning this campaign, winning 8 of their first ten games, however it's been less quite as easy for recent forward the Swedish attacker.

Following 3 goals during his first four matches, this expensive acquisition has not scored in 6 matches, with manager the Spanish tactician stating he gave the Sweden striker a hug after the weekend's two-nil victory against West Ham in recognition of his efforts.

Playing Time and Squad Dynamics

The Swedish striker has featured for 90 minutes across six from Arsenal's first ten games - more than the manager initially intended for, due to the knee injury affecting Kai Havertz restricting the ability the manager possesses to rotate the Swedish international.

Havertz represents one of Arteta's most reliable squad members and there is a case to be had suggesting Havertz would have started instead of the Swedish striker in big away fixtures versus Liverpool - the Gunners' sole defeat of the season - Newcastle United plus Manchester United, which they won.

There is also the reality the striker did not have a full summer preparation before joining, and missed team sessions at his former club when he attempted to force through a move to north London.

Scoring Record & Anticipations

However the Swedish international is a win-now signing, who notched ninety-seven goals across 102 games with Sporting during his two seasons at the Portuguese club.

His lack of goals are not a problem since the team are winning at the moment, but he is an athlete that was brought in to help the squad across the finish line as they attempt to secure their initial trophy after two thousand twenty.

Manager's Perspective & Team Integration

The Arsenal manager has shown recognition of the striker's effort in the opening games while showered compliments on the striker for his contributions that often goes unnoticed when the chance has presented itself.

Following the Gunners' victory against the Greek side, he called the forward's display "outstanding" while praised his "work-rate".

When the club acquired the Swedish international, existed a feeling his inclusion would create opportunities for the multiple offensive talents the team possess behind him including the Norwegian captain, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze and the Brazilian forward.

Statistical Analysis

The striker's attempt locations the current campaign

The North London club have changed their style this campaign to move the ball between the lines faster while have adjusted their tactics to be more vertical.

This is partially to extract the maximum out of Gyokeres, that doesn't attempt to drift into midfield to link play like the German, rather whose primary attribute is considered as running between both centre-backs and into the space in behind.

When watching Arsenal currently, it can be seen the midfielders are attempting for passes that could free Gyokeres for opportunities.

This is demonstrated by the 23 chances the forward has had, however he has merely managed 7 shots on target from those opportunities in 10 matches, with one coming via a spot-kick.

Tactical Changes & Squad Backing

Arsenal struggled to break down sides employing low block last season when they fell away during the championship pursuit, so their revised style is designed to damage the opposition by maintaining tempo.

Arsenal are also delivering crosses the ball with increased frequency to create additional opportunities.

Among the striker's 3 goals so far originated from the penalty spot but this occurred when Saka had already been replaced in the five-nil victory against United.

The manager stated Gyokeres represents the best spot-kick specialist in the squad during a discussion for ESPN Brazil, yet the duty fell to Saka that took the spot-kick during the win over the Hammers when both were on the field, suggesting the England attacker might be first choice for penalties this season.

Teammate Support & Belief

The Arsenal winger, who completed his 200th English top flight appearance with the Gunners in the win on Saturday, has expressed confidence in the Swedish striker to succeed.

"In my opinion Viktor's performing really, really well," Saka said post-game with the Hammers.

"There's no doubt he will find the net. What he's providing to this team, us as his team-mates, we're so appreciative for what he does - how he retains possession, the way he makes movements, the threat he provides us.

"He's a big part of the reason we're securing victories in these games. His scoring will arrive. We're aware, we're confident and we believe in his abilities. I don't think there are doubts. He's still positive, he continues to be happy and he's consistently providing his best every game."

Upcoming Prospects Regarding The Striker

It's reasonable to state it hasn't proven the most straightforward beginning for the Swedish international, but this doesn't imply there are not signs to show situations will become better.

Gyokeres began the season playing catch-up regarding his fitness after a disrupted pre-season.

The German's fitness issue has resulted in him being thrust into circumstances earlier than possibly planned - it has also meant the connections with creative players behind him that have not fully developed are being emphasized.

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

Michael Ramsey
Michael Ramsey

A Milan-based travel enthusiast and local guide with a passion for sharing the city's rich history and vibrant culture.