Assessing Gyokeres' Gunners Opening: Ten Games, Three Scores

Viktor Gyokeres in action for Arsenal

The Gunners are experiencing a remarkable beginning to the campaign, winning 8 from their first 10 matches, however it hasn't proven as easy for recent striker the Swedish attacker.

After three goals in his initial 4 matches, this expensive acquisition has not scored for six matches, as head coach Mikel Arteta revealing he gave the Swedish forward a hug following the weekend's two-nil victory against West Ham in recognition of his efforts.

Playing Minutes and Squad Factors

The Swedish striker has featured for full matches in six of Arsenal's first 10 games - more than the manager planned for, with the knee injury to the German midfielder limiting the capacity Arteta possesses to rotate the 27-year-old.

The German player is one of the manager's key squad members and there is a case to be made that the German might have started in place of the Swedish striker during big away matches versus the Reds - the Gunners' sole loss this season - Newcastle United and the Red Devils, which they won.

Additionally, there's the reality Gyokeres did not undergo complete pre-season before joining, while skipped squad training with his former club when he attempted to force through a move toward north London.

Scoring History & Expectations

However the Swedish international represents a immediate impact signing, that scored 97 goals across one hundred two appearances for his previous club during two campaigns with the Lisbon-based team.

The striker's drought in scoring aren't an issue as Arsenal are securing victories at the moment, yet he is a player that was brought in to help the team over the line as they attempt to win their initial trophy after two thousand twenty.

Coach's Perspective & Squad Adaptation

Arteta has shown recognition for the striker's effort in the initial matches while heaped compliments upon the striker regarding his contributions which often goes unnoticed when the chance has presented to do so.

In the aftermath the Gunners' victory over the Greek side, he called the striker's display "exceptional" and commended his "effort level".

When Arsenal acquired the Swedish international, existed a feeling his presence would create opportunities for the multiple offensive talents the team have behind him in Martin Odegaard, the English winger, Eberechi Eze and Gabriel Martinelli.

Numerical Analysis

Viktor Gyokeres' attempt locations the current campaign

Arsenal have changed their approach this campaign to get possession through midfield more quickly and have adapted their tactics to become more vertical.

This is partially to get the best out of Gyokeres, that does not look to drop deeper and connect passes like Havertz, rather his strength is felt as making runs between both defenders and into the space in behind.

Observing the Gunners currently, one can notice the central players are looking for passes that could release the striker for a chance.

This is demonstrated by the twenty-three opportunities the forward has had, but he has only managed 7 attempts on goal with those opportunities in 10 games, with one being from the penalty spot.

Tactical Adjustments and Squad Support

Arsenal struggled to break down sides employing low block last season when they fell away during the championship pursuit, and their revised approach is designed to hurt opponents by playing quickly.

Arsenal are also delivering crosses the ball more regularly to create additional opportunities.

Among Gyokeres' 3 goals so far originated from the penalty spot however that was when the English winger was already been substituted during the 5-0 win against United.

Arteta stated Gyokeres is the top penalty taker in the squad in an interview with ESPN Brazil, but it was Saka who took the spot-kick in the victory against the Hammers while both were present on the pitch, suggesting the England attacker might be the primary option to take them this season.

Squad Member Encouragement and Confidence

The Arsenal winger, that completed his 200th Premier League appearance with the Gunners in the win on Saturday, has expressed confidence in the Swedish striker to thrive.

"I think Viktor's performing really, really well," Saka said after the match against the Hammers.

"There's no doubt he's going to score goals. The contributions he's providing to this team, us as his team-mates, we're so appreciative of what he delivers - how he holds the ball, how he makes the runs, the danger he gives us.

"He's a big part of the reason we're securing victories in these games. His scoring will come. We know that, we're confident and we have faith in him. I don't believe there are doubts. He remains up, he continues to be happy while he's consistently giving his best every game."

Future Prospects for The Striker

It is fair to say it has not been the most straightforward of starts for the Swedish international, however this doesn't imply there aren't signs to show things will get improved.

The striker started the season attempting catch-up regarding his fitness after a disrupted pre-season.

Havertz's fitness issue has meant he has been thrust into circumstances earlier than perhaps planned - this has also caused the relationships with midfielders behind him that have not quite clicked have been emphasized.

Gyokeres is a eager runner and constantly looks for {space|g

Joseph Liu
Joseph Liu

Veterinarian and pet wellness advocate with over 10 years of experience in animal care and nutrition.