🔗 Share this article

The Gunners are experiencing a strong beginning to the campaign, securing victories in eight of their first ten games, however it has not been quite as easy for new forward the Swedish attacker.

Following three goals in his first four games, this £64m acquisition hasn't found the net in six consecutive games, as head coach Mikel Arteta revealing he gave the Swedish forward an embrace following Saturday's two-nil victory against West Ham for his contributions.

Playing Time & Team Factors

Gyokeres has featured for full matches in six from Arsenal's first ten matches - more than the manager planned for, with the knee injury affecting the German midfielder restricting the ability Arteta has to rest the 27-year-old.

The German player represents one of the manager's key players while there is a case to be made suggesting Havertz might have been selected instead of the Swedish striker in important road fixtures versus Liverpool - the Gunners' sole defeat this campaign - Newcastle United and the Red Devils, games that they emerged victorious from.

Additionally, there's the reality Gyokeres didn't have a full summer preparation before joining, and skipped squad sessions at Sporting when he attempted to force through a transfer toward north London.

Goal-Scoring Record & Expectations

However Gyokeres represents a immediate impact signing, that notched ninety-seven goals across one hundred two games with his previous club during his two campaigns with the Portuguese club.

His lack of scoring aren't an issue as the team are securing victories at the moment, yet he is a player that was brought in to help the squad over the line while they attempt to secure their initial title since two thousand twenty.

Manager's Perspective & Team Adaptation

Arteta has shown recognition for the striker's effort in the initial matches and showered praise on the striker for his contributions that often goes unnoticed whenever the chance has arisen to do so.

In the aftermath of Arsenal's win over the Greek side, he described the striker's display "outstanding" while commended his "effort level".

At the time Arsenal signed Gyokeres, there was a feeling his presence would open up the space for the various offensive talents Arsenal possess behind him in Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze and Gabriel Martinelli.

Statistical Breakdown

Arsenal have altered their style this season to get the ball between the lines faster while have adapted their strategy to become more vertical.

This is partially to extract the best out of Gyokeres, who does not look to drift into midfield and link play similar to Havertz, but whose strength is felt to be running through both defenders and into the gaps behind them.

When watching Arsenal currently, one can notice the midfielders are attempting for the ball that could free the striker for opportunities.

This is demonstrated in the 23 opportunities Gyokeres has received, however he has only mustered 7 shots on target with those chances across ten games, with one coming via a spot-kick.

Strategic Changes & Team Support

Arsenal struggled to penetrate sides employing low block last season as they fell away during the title race, and their revised style aims to hurt opponents by maintaining tempo.

The team are likewise delivering crosses more regularly with increased frequency to generate additional opportunities.

Among the striker's three scores so far came from a spot-kick however that was at a time the English winger was already been replaced during the 5-0 victory over United.

Arteta stated Gyokeres represents the best penalty taker at the club in an interview with the sports network, yet it was the English international who took the spot-kick in the victory against West Ham when both were on the pitch, implying the England attacker might be first choice to take them this season.

Teammate Support & Belief

Saka, who completed his 200th Premier League appearance with the Gunners in the win this weekend, has expressed confidence in Gyokeres to thrive.

"In my opinion Gyokeres' playing really, really well," the Englishman said post-game with West Ham.

"Without question he will score goals. What he's providing to this team, us as his team-mates, we are extremely appreciative of what he delivers - the manner he retains possession, how he makes movements, the threat he gives the team.

"He represents a big part of the reason we're winning these matches. His scoring will come. We're aware, we believe that while we have faith in him. I don't believe there are concerns. He's still up, he continues to be content and he's still providing his best each match."

Future Prospects for The Striker

It is fair to state it hasn't proven the easiest of starts for Gyokeres, however this doesn't imply there aren't signs to show things will get improved.

The striker began the campaign attempting to recover regarding his conditioning after an interrupted summer preparation.

The German's fitness issue has meant him being thrust into situations sooner compared to possibly anticipated - this has also caused the relationships with creative players supporting him that have not quite clicked have been emphasized.

The striker represents a willing movement maker while consistently seeks out {space|g