Analyzing Viktor Gyokeres' Arsenal Start: Ten Matches, Three Scores

Viktor Gyokeres in action for the Gunners

The Gunners are experiencing a remarkable beginning to the season, winning eight from their opening 10 matches, however it has not been as straightforward for recent forward the Swedish attacker.

Following three scores in his initial four games, this £64m signing hasn't found the net for six matches, with manager Mikel Arteta saying he gave the Swedish forward an embrace after the weekend's two-nil victory over the Hammers for his hard work.

Playing Time & Team Dynamics

The Swedish striker has played 90 minutes in six from Arsenal's opening 10 games - beyond the manager planned for, due to the knee injury affecting the German midfielder restricting the capacity Arteta possesses to rest the 27-year-old.

The German player represents one of Arteta's most trusted players while there is a case to be had suggesting the German might have started in place of Gyokeres during important road fixtures against the Reds - Arsenal's only loss this season - the Magpies and the Red Devils, which they emerged victorious from.

Additionally, there's the fact Gyokeres did not have a full pre-season prior to arriving, and skipped team training at Sporting as he attempted to secure a move toward north London.

Goal-Scoring History & Anticipations

But the Swedish international is a win-now signing, who scored 97 goals in one hundred two appearances with Sporting in his two campaigns at the Lisbon-based team.

His lack of scoring aren't a problem as the team are securing victories at the moment, yet he is an athlete that was signed in to get the team across the finish line while they attempt to win their initial title after two thousand twenty.

Manager's Viewpoint & Squad Integration

Arteta has demonstrated an appreciation of the striker's work rate in the initial matches while showered praise upon the striker regarding his work that often goes unnoticed when the opportunity has arisen to do so.

Following of Arsenal's victory over the Greek side, he described the forward's display "exceptional" while commended the player's "work-rate".

At the time Arsenal acquired the Swedish international, there was an expectation his inclusion would open up opportunities to benefit the multiple offensive talents Arsenal have behind him including Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze and the Brazilian forward.

Numerical Breakdown

The striker's attempt map the current campaign

Arsenal have altered their style this campaign to move the ball between the lines more quickly and have adapted their strategy to become more vertical.

This represents in part to extract the best out of Gyokeres, that does not look to drop deeper and link play like the German, but whose strength is felt as running between both defenders and into the gaps in behind.

Observing Arsenal this season, one can notice the midfielders are looking to find passes that may release the striker for opportunities.

This is shown in the twenty-three opportunities Gyokeres has received, however he has only mustered 7 attempts on goal with those opportunities across ten matches, including one being from a spot-kick.

Tactical Changes and Squad Support

The Gunners had difficulty to break down opponents in a defensive setup last season as they fell away during the title race, and their revised approach aims to hurt opponents by playing quickly.

Arsenal are likewise crossing the ball more regularly to generate additional opportunities.

One of Gyokeres' three scores this season came from a spot-kick however this occurred at a time Saka had already been replaced during the 5-0 victory against Leeds.

The manager stated Gyokeres is the top penalty taker in the squad in an interview with the sports network, but the duty fell to Saka that took the spot-kick during the victory against West Ham when both were present on the pitch, suggesting the England winger could be the primary option to take them this term.

Teammate Encouragement & Belief

The Arsenal winger, that completed his 200th Premier League appearance for Arsenal in the victory on Saturday, has backed Gyokeres to thrive.

"In my opinion Gyokeres' playing really, really impressively," Saka said post-game against West Ham.

"Without question he will score goals. What he's bringing to the squad, we as his team-mates, we're so grateful of what he delivers - the manner he retains possession, the way he makes the runs, the danger he gives the team.

"He's a big part of the reason we're securing victories in these matches. His goals will come. We know that, we're confident while we have faith in him. I don't think there are concerns. He's still positive, he's still content and he's still providing his best every game."

Upcoming Prospects for The Striker

It is fair to say it has not been the easiest of starts for the Swedish international, but this doesn't imply there are not signs to show things will get better.

Gyokeres started the campaign playing catch-up regarding his conditioning following a disrupted pre-season.

The German's injury has meant him being placed into circumstances sooner than possibly anticipated - it has also meant the relationships with midfielders supporting him that have not quite clicked have been highlighted.

The striker represents a willing runner while constantly seeks out {space|g

Wayne Gregory
Wayne Gregory

A passionate chef and food writer specializing in Arctic cuisine, with years of experience exploring remote culinary traditions.

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