Assessing Viktor Gyokeres' Arsenal Beginning: 10 Matches, 3 Goals

The Swedish striker during play for the Gunners

The Gunners have enjoyed a remarkable beginning this campaign, securing victories in eight of their opening ten games, however it hasn't proven quite as straightforward for new striker the Swedish attacker.

After 3 goals during his first four matches, this £64m acquisition has not found the net for six matches, as head coach the Spanish tactician revealing he offered the Swedish forward an embrace after Saturday's two-nil win over West Ham for his hard work.

Game Time and Team Dynamics

The Swedish striker has played full matches across six of Arsenal's first 10 matches - more than the manager planned for, with the knee injury to the German midfielder restricting the capacity Arteta possesses to rest the 27-year-old.

Havertz is one of the manager's most trusted squad members and exists an argument to be had that the German might have been selected in place of Gyokeres in important road fixtures versus the Reds - Arsenal's only loss this campaign - Newcastle United plus the Red Devils, games that they emerged victorious from.

There is also the reality Gyokeres didn't undergo a full summer preparation before joining, while missed squad sessions at Sporting when he attempted to force through a transfer toward north London.

Goal-Scoring History and Anticipations

However the Swedish international is a immediate impact addition, who scored ninety-seven goals across one hundred two games for his previous club in his two seasons with the Lisbon-based team.

The striker's drought in scoring aren't a problem since Arsenal are winning currently, yet he represents a player who was signed to the club to help the team across the finish line as they attempt to win their first title after two thousand twenty.

Coach's Perspective & Team Adaptation

Arteta has demonstrated recognition for Gyokeres' effort in the initial matches and showered compliments on the forward for his work which often goes under the radar whenever the opportunity has presented itself.

In the aftermath the Gunners' win against the Greek side, he described the forward's performance "outstanding" while praised his "work-rate".

When Arsenal signed the Swedish international, existed an expectation his presence would create opportunities for the various attacking talents Arsenal have supporting him including the Norwegian captain, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze plus the Brazilian forward.

Statistical Analysis

The striker's attempt locations this season

Arsenal have changed their style this campaign to get possession between the lines more quickly and have adjusted their strategy to be more direct.

This is partially to get the maximum from Gyokeres, who doesn't attempt to drift deeper and link play similar to Havertz, rather his primary attribute is considered to be making runs through both centre-backs and into the gaps in behind.

Observing Arsenal currently, one can notice the midfielders are looking to find passes that may free Gyokeres for opportunities.

This is shown in the twenty-three chances Gyokeres has had, however he has merely managed 7 attempts on goal with those chances in 10 matches, with one being from the penalty spot.

Strategic Changes & Team Support

The Gunners had difficulty to break down opponents in a low block last season as they fell away during the title race, and their new style is designed to damage opponents by playing quickly.

Arsenal are also delivering crosses the ball with increased frequency to create more chances.

One of the striker's 3 scores this season came from the penalty spot however this occurred when Saka had already been substituted during the five-nil victory over Leeds.

Arteta said the Swedish striker represents the best penalty taker at the club in an interview with ESPN Brazil, yet the duty fell to the English international who took the spot-kick in the victory against West Ham while both were on the pitch, suggesting the English attacker might be the primary option for penalties this term.

Squad Member Encouragement & Belief

Saka, that completed his two hundredth English top flight appearance with the Gunners during the win this weekend, has backed the Swedish striker to succeed.

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

"Without question he's going to find the net. What he's bringing to the squad, us as his team-mates, we're so appreciative of what he does - the manner he retains possession, how he makes movements, the threat he gives the team.

"He's a big part of the reason we're winning these games. His goals will arrive. We know that, we believe that while we believe in him. I don't believe there are doubts. He remains positive, he continues to be content while he's still providing his best each match."

Upcoming Outlook Regarding The Striker

It is fair to say it hasn't proven the easiest of starts for Gyokeres, but this doesn't imply there aren't indicators to show situations will become improved.

Gyokeres started the season attempting to recover with his fitness following an interrupted summer preparation.

The German's injury has meant him being thrust into situations sooner compared to perhaps anticipated - this has also caused the connections with creative players behind him that have not fully developed are being emphasized.

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

James Green
James Green

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