Assessing Gyokeres' Arsenal Beginning: 10 Matches, 3 Scores

The Swedish striker during play for Arsenal

The Gunners have made an impressive start this season, winning eight from their first 10 games, but it hasn't proven as straightforward for new striker the Swedish attacker.

After 3 scores in his initial four matches, this £64m acquisition hasn't found the net for six consecutive games, as manager Mikel Arteta stating he offered the Sweden forward a hug following the weekend's two-nil victory over the Hammers in recognition of his hard work.

Playing Time and Team Dynamics

The Swedish striker has featured for full matches across six from Arsenal's opening ten games - beyond the manager initially intended him to play, with the fitness issue to the German midfielder restricting the ability the manager has to rotate the Swedish international.

The German player is one of the manager's most trusted players and exists a case to be had suggesting the German might have started in place of Gyokeres in big road matches versus the Reds - Arsenal's sole loss of the campaign - the Magpies plus Manchester United, which they won.

Additionally, there's the reality the striker did not undergo a full summer preparation prior to joining, and skipped team training at his former club when he attempted to secure a transfer to Arsenal.

Scoring Record & Expectations

But the Swedish international represents a immediate impact signing, that scored 97 goals in one hundred two games with his previous club in two campaigns at the Lisbon-based club.

His drought in goals aren't an issue since the team are securing victories currently, yet he is a player that was signed in to help the team across the finish line as they attempt to secure their first trophy after 2020.

Coach's Viewpoint and Squad Integration

Arteta has demonstrated recognition of the striker's effort in the opening matches and heaped praise upon the striker regarding his contributions which often goes unnoticed whenever the opportunity has arisen itself.

In the aftermath the Gunners' win against Olympiacos, he called the forward's performance "exceptional" and commended the player's "effort level".

At the time the club signed the Swedish international, existed a feeling his inclusion would create opportunities to benefit the various attacking talents Arsenal have behind him in Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze plus Gabriel Martinelli.

Numerical Analysis

Viktor Gyokeres' shot locations this season

The North London club have altered their style this campaign to move possession through midfield faster and have adapted their tactics to become more direct.

This represents partially to get the maximum from the Swedish striker, who does not look to drift deeper to link play similar to the German, rather whose primary attribute is considered as making runs through both defenders toward the space in behind.

Observing the Gunners currently, one can notice the midfielders are looking to find passes that could release Gyokeres for opportunities.

This is demonstrated by the 23 chances Gyokeres has received, however he has only mustered seven attempts on goal from those opportunities in ten matches, with one coming via the penalty spot.

Tactical Changes & Team Backing

Arsenal had difficulty to penetrate opponents in a defensive setup last season as they faded in the championship pursuit, so their revised style aims to hurt the opposition while playing quickly.

Arsenal are also crossing more regularly with increased frequency to generate more chances.

One of the striker's 3 goals this season originated from the penalty spot but this occurred at a time Saka had already been replaced during the five-nil win against United.

The manager stated Gyokeres is the best penalty taker at the club during a discussion for the sports network, but it was Saka that assumed the spot-kick during the victory against West Ham when both were on the pitch, suggesting the English winger could be the primary option for penalties this term.

Squad Member Support & Confidence

Saka, that completed his 200th Premier League appearance for Arsenal during the win on Saturday, has backed the Swedish striker to thrive.

"I think Gyokeres' playing really, really impressively," Saka said after the match against the Hammers.

"Without question he's going to find the net. What he's bringing to this team, we as his colleagues, we are extremely grateful of what he does - how he retains possession, how he makes the runs, the danger he provides the team.

"He's a big part why we're winning these games. His goals will arrive. We're aware, we believe that while we have faith in his abilities. I don't think there are concerns. He remains positive, he's still happy and he's still providing maximum effort every game."

Future Prospects Regarding Gyokeres

It's reasonable to say it has not been the easiest beginning for the Swedish international, but this doesn't imply there are not indicators to show things will become better.

Gyokeres began the season attempting catch-up regarding his conditioning following an interrupted pre-season.

Havertz's injury has resulted in he has been placed into situations earlier than perhaps anticipated - it has also meant the relationships with midfielders behind him which haven't quite clicked have been emphasized.

Gyokeres is a willing runner and constantly seeks out {space|g

Donna Thompson
Donna Thompson

Tech enthusiast and digital strategist with a passion for exploring emerging technologies and sharing practical insights.