Viktor Gyokeres’ Premier League debut for Arsenal left fans surprised, as the Swedish striker struggled to make an impact in the high-profile clash against Manchester United.
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Signed for £63.5 million from Sporting CP, Gyokeres was handed the No.14 shirt and a starting role at Old Trafford, but despite ..Continue Reading
The former Brighton and Coventry City forward was substituted after 60 minutes for Kai Havertz, having made little contribution to the game.
Gyokeres, who netted 97 goals during his time in Portugal, couldn’t register a single shot—something not seen since his Championship days.
SofaScore data showed he covered 7.8km, completed 12 sprints at a top speed of 31.4 km/h, but only managed 21 touches (three inside the box), lost possession 11 times, and completed just four of nine passes.
He also failed to create any chances and won only two ground duels, with one aerial success out of six attempts.
Supporters felt Arsenal didn’t play to his strengths, particularly with balls in behind, and when one did come his way, a poor touch led to a foul rather than a goal threat.
After the match, Daniel Sturridge weighed in, noting that adjusting to a new tactical system and league demands takes time, and Gyokeres will need patience to find his rhythm in English football.
“They’ve been playing with a striker in Havertz who is very different to Gyokeres,” Sturridge said on Sky Sports’ coverage.
“It does take time to get used to that player’s runs. He is going to have to alter his game. It’s not just about the team changing for him, it’s about him changing for the team also.
“It’s about understanding how he is going to perform best, the manager is going to have to implement things on the training pitch.
“He’s going to have to have personal conversations and that’s what it takes for you to hit the ground running.”
It is still early days for Gyokeres after a late pre-season arrival and he will be hoping to get up to speed in Arsenal’s next match as they host Leeds United at the Emirates on Saturday.
