Analyzing Viktor Gyokeres' Arsenal Opening: Ten Matches, Three Goals

Viktor Gyokeres in action for the Gunners

The Gunners are experiencing a remarkable start this season, winning 8 of their opening ten matches, however it has not been as straightforward for new forward the Swedish attacker.

Following three scores during his initial four matches, the £64m signing hasn't found the net for 6 matches, as manager the Spanish tactician stating he gave the Sweden forward a hug following Saturday's two-nil victory against the Hammers in recognition of his contributions.

Game Time & Squad Dynamics

The Swedish striker has played full matches in six of Arsenal's opening ten matches - more than the manager initially intended him to play, due to the knee injury to the German midfielder restricting the ability Arteta has to rest the Swedish international.

The German player represents one of Arteta's most trusted squad members while there is an argument to be had suggesting Havertz might have been selected instead of the Swedish striker in important road matches versus the Reds - Arsenal's sole defeat this season - the Magpies plus the Red Devils, which they emerged victorious from.

Additionally, there's the fact the striker didn't undergo a full pre-season prior to arriving, while skipped team sessions at his former club as he looked to force through a transfer toward Arsenal.

Goal-Scoring Record & Expectations

However the Swedish international represents a immediate impact signing, who notched ninety-seven goals in one hundred two appearances for Sporting during two campaigns with the Lisbon-based club.

The striker's drought in goals aren't an issue since Arsenal are securing victories at the moment, yet he is an athlete who was brought in to help the team across the finish line as they attempt to win their first title after two thousand twenty.

Coach's Viewpoint & Squad Adaptation

The Arsenal manager has shown recognition of Gyokeres' work rate during the initial matches and heaped compliments on the striker regarding his work that often goes unnoticed whenever the chance has arisen to do so.

In the aftermath the Gunners' victory against Olympiacos, he called the forward's display "outstanding" while praised his "effort level".

When the club signed the Swedish international, existed a feeling his inclusion would open up opportunities for the multiple offensive talents Arsenal have supporting him including Martin Odegaard, the English winger, Eberechi Eze plus Gabriel Martinelli.

Numerical Breakdown

The striker's attempt map the current season

Arsenal have altered their approach this campaign to get the ball through midfield faster and have adjusted their tactics to become more direct.

This represents partially to get the best from Gyokeres, that doesn't attempt to drop into midfield and link play like Havertz, but his primary attribute is felt to be running through the two defenders and into the space behind them.

When watching Arsenal this season, it can be seen the midfielders are looking to find the ball that may free the striker for opportunities.

This is shown in the 23 chances the forward has had, however he has merely managed seven attempts on goal from those chances across 10 matches, including one coming via a spot-kick.

Tactical Adjustments & Squad Backing

The Gunners had difficulty to break down opponents in a low block previous campaign when they faded in the championship pursuit, so their revised style aims to hurt the opposition while maintaining tempo.

Arsenal are also delivering crosses more regularly more regularly to generate additional opportunities.

One of the striker's three scores this season originated from the penalty spot however that was at a time the English winger was already been substituted during the five-nil win over United.

Arteta said the Swedish striker represents the best spot-kick specialist in the squad during a discussion with the sports network, yet the duty fell to Saka that took the penalty during the victory against the Hammers while both were present on the pitch, suggesting the English winger could be the primary option for penalties this season.

Teammate Support and Belief

Saka, who completed his two hundredth Premier League appearance with the Gunners during the win this weekend, has expressed confidence in Gyokeres to thrive.

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

"Without question he's going to find the net. The contributions he's providing to the squad, we as his team-mates, we're so appreciative for what he delivers - how he retains possession, the way he makes the runs, the threat he gives us.

"He's a big part why we're securing victories in these games. His goals will arrive. We're aware, we believe that while we believe in his abilities. I don't think there's any concerns. He remains up, he's still content and he's still giving maximum effort every game."

Upcoming Prospects for Gyokeres

It is fair to say it hasn't proven the most straightforward of starts for the Swedish international, however this doesn't imply there are not signs to show situations will become better.

Gyokeres started the campaign attempting catch-up with his fitness after a disrupted summer preparation.

The German's fitness issue has meant him being thrust into situations earlier compared to perhaps planned - this has also caused the connections with creative players supporting him which haven't quite clicked are being emphasized.

Gyokeres represents a eager movement maker and consistently looks for {space|g

Katherine Allison
Katherine Allison

A productivity consultant and writer with over a decade of experience in workplace optimization and time management strategies.