🔗 Share this article

Arsenal have made a strong start to the campaign, securing victories in eight of their opening ten games, but it has not been as easy for new forward Viktor Gyokeres.

Following 3 scores during his initial four games, the £64m signing hasn't scored for 6 matches, as manager Mikel Arteta stating he offered the Sweden forward a hug following the weekend's 2-0 victory against the Hammers in recognition of his hard work.

Game Minutes and Team Factors

Gyokeres has played 90 minutes across six of Arsenal's opening ten games - more than the manager initially intended him to play, with the fitness issue to the German midfielder limiting the ability the manager has to rest the 27-year-old.

Havertz represents one of Arteta's most trusted players while exists an argument to be had suggesting Havertz would have started instead of Gyokeres in important road matches versus the Reds - the Gunners' sole defeat of the campaign - Newcastle United and the Red Devils, games that they won.

There is also the reality the striker didn't undergo complete pre-season before joining, while missed squad sessions with Sporting as he attempted to secure a transfer toward north London.

Scoring Record and Expectations

But the Swedish international represents a win-now addition, that notched 97 times across one hundred two appearances with his previous club in two campaigns with the Lisbon-based club.

His drought in goals are not an issue as Arsenal are winning currently, but he represents an athlete who was signed in to help the squad across the finish line as they attempt to win their initial trophy after 2020.

Manager's Viewpoint & Squad Integration

Arteta has demonstrated an appreciation of Gyokeres' effort during the initial games and heaped compliments upon the forward for his work that often goes unnoticed when the chance has arisen itself.

In the aftermath of Arsenal's win over Olympiacos, he described the forward's display "exceptional" and praised the player's "effort level".

When Arsenal signed the Swedish international, there was a belief his inclusion would create opportunities to benefit the multiple attacking talents the team have behind him including Martin Odegaard, the English winger, Eberechi Eze plus the Brazilian forward.

Statistical Analysis

The North London club have altered their style this season to get possession between the lines faster and have adjusted their strategy to be more vertical.

This is partially to get the best out of Gyokeres, that does not look to drift deeper to link play like the German, but his strength is felt to be running between both defenders and into the gaps behind them.

When watching Arsenal currently, it can be seen the central players are attempting to find passes that could release the striker for a chance.

This is shown in the twenty-three chances Gyokeres has received, but he has only managed 7 attempts on goal from those opportunities in 10 matches, with one coming via the penalty spot.

Strategic Changes and Squad Support

The Gunners had difficulty to penetrate sides in a low block last season as they fell away during the championship pursuit, so their new approach is designed to damage the opposition while maintaining tempo.

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

One of the striker's 3 scores this season came from a spot-kick however this occurred at a time Saka was already been substituted during the five-nil victory against United.

The manager said Gyokeres is the top spot-kick specialist in the squad in an interview with the sports network, yet it was Saka who assumed the penalty in the win against West Ham when both were present on the field, suggesting the England attacker could be first choice for penalties this season.

Teammate Encouragement & Belief

Saka, that made his two hundredth Premier League appearance with the Gunners during the victory this weekend, has backed the Swedish striker to succeed.

"I think Gyokeres' playing really, really well," Saka said after the match against West Ham.

"There's no doubt he's going to score goals. The contributions he's bringing to the squad, us as his colleagues, we're so appreciative for what he delivers - how he retains possession, how he makes the runs, the danger he gives the team.

"He represents a big part why we're winning these games. His goals will arrive. We know that, we're confident while we have faith in him. I don't think there's any doubts. He remains up, he continues to be happy while he's still giving his best every game."

Future Outlook Regarding Gyokeres

It is fair to state it has not been the most straightforward beginning for Gyokeres, but this doesn't imply there are not indicators suggesting things will become better.

The striker began the season playing catch-up regarding his conditioning following an interrupted pre-season.

Havertz's fitness issue has resulted in he has been placed into circumstances sooner compared to perhaps planned - it has also meant the connections with midfielders behind him which haven't fully developed have been emphasized.

The striker represents a willing movement maker while constantly looks for {space|g