🔗 Share this article

The Gunners are experiencing an impressive beginning to the campaign, securing victories in 8 from their opening ten games, but it has not been quite as easy for recent striker Viktor Gyokeres.

After three goals during his initial 4 games, the expensive signing has not found the net in 6 matches, as head coach Mikel Arteta revealing he offered the Swedish striker an embrace following the weekend's 2-0 victory over the Hammers in recognition of his contributions.

Playing Time and Squad Dynamics

Gyokeres has played 90 minutes across six from Arsenal's opening ten matches - beyond Arteta initially intended him to play, with the fitness issue to Kai Havertz restricting the capacity the manager has to rest the Swedish international.

Havertz is one of Arteta's most trusted players and exists a case to be made suggesting the German would have started in place of Gyokeres during big road matches versus Liverpool - Arsenal's only defeat this campaign - the Magpies and the Red Devils, games that they won.

There is also the reality the striker did not have a full summer preparation before arriving, and missed squad sessions at his former club as he attempted to force through a move to Arsenal.

Scoring Record & Anticipations

But Gyokeres is a immediate impact addition, that scored 97 goals across 102 games with his previous club during his two seasons with the Portuguese club.

The striker's lack of goals are not an issue as Arsenal are winning currently, but he represents a player that was signed in to help the squad across the finish line as they try to secure their initial title after two thousand twenty.

Coach's Perspective & Team Adaptation

Arteta has demonstrated recognition for the striker's effort during the initial matches while heaped praise on the striker for his contributions which can go unnoticed when the opportunity has presented itself.

In the aftermath of Arsenal's victory against the Greek side, he called the forward's performance "exceptional" and praised his "effort level".

When Arsenal acquired Gyokeres, there was an expectation his inclusion would open up opportunities for the various offensive players Arsenal possess supporting him in the Norwegian captain, the English winger, Eberechi Eze plus the Brazilian forward.

Statistical Breakdown

Arsenal have altered their style this season to move the ball between the lines faster while have adjusted their strategy to be more vertical.

This is in part to get the best from the Swedish striker, who does not look to drop deeper and connect passes similar to the German, rather his strength is considered as running between both defenders toward the space in behind.

Observing the Gunners currently, one can notice the midfielders are attempting to find passes that may free Gyokeres for a chance.

This is shown by the twenty-three chances Gyokeres has received, however he has merely managed 7 attempts on goal from those chances across ten matches, including one being from the penalty spot.

Tactical Changes and Team Support

The Gunners had difficulty to penetrate opponents in a low block last season when they fell away in the title race, so their new approach aims to damage opponents by maintaining tempo.

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

Among the striker's 3 goals this season came from a spot-kick however that was when Saka had already been substituted in the five-nil victory against United.

The manager said the Swedish striker is the top penalty taker in the squad in an interview with the sports network, but it was Saka who assumed the spot-kick during the win over West Ham while both were present on the pitch, implying the English attacker could be the primary option to take them this term.

Squad Member Support and Confidence

Saka, that completed his two hundredth Premier League appearance with the Gunners during the victory on Saturday, has expressed confidence in Gyokeres to succeed.

"In my opinion Gyokeres' playing really, really impressively," the Englishman said after the match with West Ham.

"Without question he's going to score goals. What he's bringing to this team, we as his colleagues, we're so grateful for what he does - the manner he holds the ball, how he makes movements, the threat he gives the team.

"He represents a significant component why we're securing victories in these matches. His goals will arrive. We know that, we believe that while we believe in his abilities. I don't think there are doubts. He remains up, he's still content while he's consistently providing his best every game."

Future Prospects for Gyokeres

It's reasonable to say it has not been the most straightforward of starts for the Swedish international, but that does not mean there aren't signs to show situations will get improved.

The striker began the campaign attempting to recover with his conditioning after a disrupted summer preparation.

Havertz's injury has meant him being thrust into circumstances sooner compared to possibly anticipated - it has also meant the connections with midfielders supporting him which haven't quite clicked are being highlighted.

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