Evaluating Viktor Gyokeres' Gunners Start: 10 Matches, Three Scores

The Gunners are experiencing an impressive start this campaign, winning 8 from their first 10 matches, but it hasn't proven quite as easy for new forward the Swedish attacker.

After three scores in his first four games, the expensive acquisition hasn't scored for 6 matches, as head coach Mikel Arteta revealing he offered the Swedish striker an embrace after Saturday's two-nil win against the Hammers for his hard work.

Game Minutes & Team Dynamics

The Swedish striker has played 90 minutes across six from Arsenal's first ten matches - more than Arteta initially intended for, with the fitness issue to Kai Havertz restricting the capacity Arteta possesses to rest the Swedish international.

Havertz is one of the manager's most reliable players while there is a case to be made that the German would have been selected instead of the Swedish striker in big road matches against the Reds - Arsenal's only defeat this campaign - the Magpies and Manchester United, games that they emerged victorious from.

There is also the reality the striker didn't have complete pre-season before joining, while missed squad training at Sporting as he looked to force through a move toward Arsenal.

Goal-Scoring History & Anticipations

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

His lack of goals are not a problem as Arsenal are securing victories currently, yet he represents a player who was signed to the club to get the team over the line while they attempt to secure their initial title since 2020.

Coach's Viewpoint and Squad Adaptation

The Arsenal manager has demonstrated recognition for the striker's work rate during the initial matches while showered praise on the forward regarding his contributions which can go unnoticed whenever the chance has presented to do so.

In the aftermath the Gunners' win against the Greek side, he described the striker's display "exceptional" and commended the player's "work-rate".

At the time Arsenal acquired the Swedish international, there was an expectation his inclusion would open up opportunities for the multiple attacking players Arsenal have behind him including Martin Odegaard, the English winger, the creative midfielder plus the Brazilian forward.

Statistical Analysis

Arsenal have altered their approach this season to get possession through midfield more quickly and have adapted their tactics to become more vertical.

This represents partially to get the maximum out of Gyokeres, that doesn't attempt to drift deeper to connect passes similar to Havertz, rather his primary attribute is felt as running between both defenders toward the space in behind.

When watching Arsenal this season, one can notice the central players are attempting for the ball that may free the striker for a chance.

This is demonstrated in the twenty-three opportunities Gyokeres has had, however he has only mustered seven attempts on goal with those opportunities across 10 matches, with one coming via the penalty spot.

Tactical Changes & Team Backing

Arsenal struggled to penetrate opponents in a defensive setup last season when they faded in the title race, so their new approach is designed to damage the opposition while maintaining tempo.

Arsenal are likewise crossing the ball with increased frequency to create more chances.

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

Arteta said the Swedish striker represents the top spot-kick specialist in the squad during a discussion with the sports network, but it was Saka that assumed the spot-kick in the victory against the Hammers when both were present on the pitch, suggesting the England winger might be first choice for penalties this season.

Teammate Encouragement & Belief

Saka, that completed his 200th Premier League appearance for Arsenal during the victory on Saturday, has expressed confidence in Gyokeres to succeed.

"In my opinion Viktor's performing really, really well," Saka stated after the match against the Hammers.

"There's no doubt he will find the net. The contributions he's providing to this team, we as his team-mates, we are extremely grateful of what he delivers - the manner he retains possession, the way he makes the runs, the threat he gives the team.

"He's a big part of the reason we're winning these games. His goals will arrive. We're aware, we believe that and we believe in him. I don't think there are doubts. He's still positive, he's still content and he's still providing maximum effort each match."

Future Prospects Regarding Gyokeres

It's reasonable to say it hasn't proven the easiest of starts for the Swedish international, however this doesn't imply there are not indicators to show situations will become better.

The striker began the season attempting catch-up regarding his conditioning after a disrupted summer preparation.

The German's injury has resulted in he has been placed into situations sooner compared to perhaps planned - it has also meant the connections with creative players supporting him which haven't fully developed are being emphasized.

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