Introduction: Mikel Arteta’s stance as manager of Arsenal on Viktor Gyökeres is clear.
Arsenal’s search for a striker has been at the top of the agenda this season. The team is able to create chances but sometimes cannot finish. Naturally, there have been names linked with a move to the Emirates. One of the strongest is Viktor Gyökeres, the Sporting CP forward who has been in scintillating form.
A month ago, Arsenal’s pursuit of Gyökeres was in doubt. Mikel Arteta said something and clarified his position. He valued the player and also laid importance on Arsenal’s priorities.
Who is Viktor Gyökeres?
Gyökeres is a Swedish forward. He plays for Sporting CP in Portugal. He has been one of the hottest strikers in Europe over the last year. His goal, movement, and physique make him an entire attacker.
Before Sporting, he played for Coventry City in England. There, he made himself known in the Championship by scoring goals regularly. His goal tally has risen after joining Portugal. Several top-class clubs have been eyeing him, and Arsenal is among them.
Why Arsenal Need a Striker
Arsenal has improved a lot since Arteta took over. They play attractive, attacking football and are challenging for titles. But the lack of a clinical striker has been an ongoing problem. Gabriel Jesus works hard, is a decent link man, and presses high, but is not a prolific finisher. Eddie Nketiah has had chances but has sometimes failed to impress.
That is why media and fans keep looking at players like Gyökeres. His finishing quality could bring Arsenal the difference in top games.
Arteta’s Reaction
When asked about Gyökeres, Arteta did not freak out. He praised the striker’s qualities and recognized he was aware of the rumors. But he also said that Arsenal must look after their own players.
Arteta confirmed that he believes in the current squad. He believes that if goals are given through training, confidence, and working together, goals will come. He explained that while Gyökeres is a nice player, Arsenal will not rush into anything.
This is indicative of Arteta’s style. He doesn’t like discussing transfers openly. He remains fixated on his team and doesn’t disrespect others. His stance on Gyökeres is simple: respect for the talent, but no diversion from what Arsenal has to do.
View of Arsenal Fans
Among Arsenal fans, there are mixed views. Some believe that the team should sign a striker like Gyökeres. They are of the opinion that he might be the link the team needs to ultimately lift the Premier League or advance deep into the Champions League.
Others are backing Arteta’s patience. They claim that the team right now has enough quality and just requires patience. They further add that big signings always bring a lot of risk, especially when changing leagues.
What Gyökeres Would Deliver
If Arsenal ever thinks about signing him, Gyökeres has a lot of attributes. He is physical, quick, and intelligent with his runs. He is capable of finishing with both feet and his head. He also covers back well off the ball, which will be appealing to Arteta’s pressing game.
At Sporting, he has shown he can handle pressure. His numbers in front of the goal are very good. In many ways, he is the kind of striker Arsenal has lacked.
The Bigger Picture
Arsenal’s transfer strategy has changed in recent years. Panic buying is no longer on the cards. Every signing is made carefully. That is why Arteta’s words are significant. By being careful when talking about Gyökeres, he is keeping an eye on the season and avoiding unnecessary hype.
The striker crisis is likely to be remanded once more in the next transfer window. Arsenal, in case they feel that they need more attacking prowess, may also have Gyökeres on their list. For now, though, Arteta wants trust from current players within the club.
Author’s Opinion
I think Arteta answered the Gyökeres question exactly as he should have. He was respectful to the player without being disloyal to his team. That is a difficult balance to maintain. The manager can’t be undermining his own strikers, but he can’t just close his eyes to what is going on in the transfer market either.
Gyökeres is a striker who could make it at Arsenal. His style of play is what the team needs. But timing must be impeccable. Signing him too soon, or for the incorrect fee, could be problematic. For now, Arsenal must be patient with what they possess. If they fall short, then Gyökeres could well be the solution. Arteta’s mantra is simple: believe in the team but stay alert for opportunities. And that is the astute approach.
