Analyzing Gyokeres' Gunners Opening: Ten Matches, 3 Goals

Viktor Gyokeres during play for the Gunners

The Gunners have made a strong start to the season, winning 8 of their opening ten matches, however it has not been quite as straightforward for new striker the Swedish attacker.

After 3 goals in his first 4 matches, the £64m signing has not scored in six consecutive games, with head coach Mikel Arteta revealing he offered the Swedish striker a hug after the weekend's two-nil victory against West Ham for his efforts.

Game Minutes and Team Factors

The Swedish striker has played 90 minutes in six from Arsenal's first ten matches - beyond the manager initially intended for, with the knee injury to Kai Havertz limiting the capacity the manager possesses to rotate the 27-year-old.

Havertz is one of Arteta's most reliable squad members and there is an argument to be had suggesting Havertz might have been selected in place of the Swedish striker during big away matches against Liverpool - the Gunners' only loss of the season - the Magpies plus Manchester United, which they won.

Additionally, there's the reality Gyokeres did not have a full summer preparation before arriving, and missed squad training with his former club as he looked to force through a transfer to north London.

Scoring History & Expectations

However the Swedish international represents a win-now addition, that scored ninety-seven times across one hundred two appearances with his previous club during his two seasons at the Portuguese club.

His drought in scoring are not an issue since Arsenal are securing victories at the moment, but he represents a player that was brought in to get the team across the finish line while they try to secure their first trophy since two thousand twenty.

Coach's Viewpoint & Squad Adaptation

The Arsenal manager has demonstrated recognition for Gyokeres' work rate in the initial matches while showered compliments on the forward regarding his contributions which often goes under the radar whenever the chance has presented itself.

Following the Gunners' win against Olympiacos, he described the forward's performance "exceptional" and commended his "effort level".

At the time Arsenal signed the Swedish international, existed an expectation his presence would create the space to benefit the multiple offensive talents the team possess supporting him including Martin Odegaard, the English winger, the creative midfielder plus Gabriel Martinelli.

Numerical Breakdown

The striker's shot map the current season

The North London club have changed their approach this campaign to move the ball between the lines faster and have adapted their tactics to be more vertical.

This is partially to get the best from the Swedish striker, that doesn't attempt to drop deeper to link play similar to Havertz, rather whose strength is considered as making runs through the two centre-backs toward the space behind them.

Observing the Gunners this season, it can be seen the central players are attempting for the ball that may release Gyokeres for a chance.

This is demonstrated in the 23 opportunities the forward has received, but he has merely mustered 7 shots on target from those chances across ten matches, including one coming via a spot-kick.

Strategic Changes & Team Backing

The Gunners had difficulty to break down opponents employing defensive setup previous campaign as they faded in the championship pursuit, and their revised approach is designed to damage opponents by playing quickly.

The team are likewise crossing more regularly more regularly to create additional opportunities.

Among the striker's three scores this season came from the penalty spot but that was when the English winger was already been substituted during the 5-0 win over United.

Arteta stated Gyokeres is the top spot-kick specialist in the squad in an interview with the sports network, yet it was the English international that assumed the penalty in the win over the Hammers while both were on the field, implying the England attacker could be first choice to take them this term.

Squad Member Support and Confidence

Saka, who completed his two hundredth English top flight appearance for Arsenal during the win this weekend, has backed the Swedish striker to succeed.

"I think Viktor's playing really, really impressively," Saka said post-game with the Hammers.

"There's no doubt he's going to find the net. The contributions he's providing to the squad, us as his team-mates, we're so appreciative for what he delivers - how he holds the ball, how he makes movements, the danger he provides the team.

"He represents a significant component of the reason we're securing victories in these games. His scoring will come. We're aware, we're confident and we have faith in his abilities. I don't believe there are doubts. He's still positive, he's still content while he's consistently giving his best every game."

Future Outlook Regarding Gyokeres

It's reasonable to state it has not been the easiest of starts for Gyokeres, however this doesn't imply there aren't indicators suggesting situations will get improved.

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

Havertz's fitness issue has meant he has been thrust into circumstances earlier compared to perhaps planned - this has also caused the connections with midfielders behind him which haven't fully developed have been highlighted.

Gyokeres represents a eager movement maker while constantly seeks out {space|g

Shannon Simmons
Shannon Simmons

A tech enthusiast and writer passionate about emerging technologies and their impact on society.