Assessing Gyokeres' Arsenal Beginning: 10 Matches, 3 Goals

Arsenal are experiencing a strong beginning this campaign, winning 8 of their opening ten games, but it hasn't proven quite as straightforward for new forward Viktor Gyokeres.

Following 3 scores in his initial 4 games, the expensive signing hasn't found the net in 6 matches, as head coach Mikel Arteta saying he offered the Sweden striker an embrace after the weekend's 2-0 victory against the Hammers for his efforts.

Playing Time & Squad Factors

The Swedish striker has played full matches across six of Arsenal's opening ten matches - more than the manager planned for, due to the fitness issue affecting Kai Havertz limiting the ability the manager possesses to rest the 27-year-old.

Havertz represents one of Arteta's most trusted squad members and exists a case to be made suggesting Havertz might have started instead of the Swedish striker during important away fixtures against Liverpool - the Gunners' sole defeat of the season - the Magpies plus the Red Devils, games that they won.

Additionally, there's the fact the striker didn't undergo complete summer preparation prior to joining, and missed team sessions at his former club as he attempted to secure a transfer toward north London.

Goal-Scoring History and Expectations

But Gyokeres is a immediate impact addition, that scored 97 goals in 102 appearances for Sporting during two campaigns at the Portuguese club.

His drought in goals aren't a problem as the team are winning at the moment, but he represents a player that was signed in to help the squad over the line while they attempt to secure their initial title since 2020.

Coach's Perspective & Team Integration

The Arsenal manager has demonstrated an appreciation of Gyokeres' work rate during the opening matches and heaped compliments on the forward for his work which often goes under the radar whenever the chance has presented to do so.

Following the Gunners' victory over Olympiacos, he called the striker's display "exceptional" and praised the player's "work-rate".

When Arsenal acquired Gyokeres, existed a feeling his inclusion would open up opportunities to benefit the multiple offensive players the team possess supporting him including the Norwegian captain, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze plus the Brazilian forward.

Statistical Analysis

Arsenal have altered their style this campaign to move possession between the lines faster while have adapted their strategy to become more direct.

This is in part to get the best from Gyokeres, that doesn't attempt to drop into midfield and connect passes like Havertz, but his primary attribute is felt to be making runs through both defenders toward the gaps behind them.

When watching the Gunners this season, one can notice the central players are looking to find passes that could free the striker for opportunities.

This is shown by the twenty-three chances Gyokeres has received, however he has only mustered 7 shots on target from those opportunities across 10 matches, with one being from a spot-kick.

Tactical Changes & Squad Support

Arsenal had difficulty to break down opponents in a low block last season as they faded during the championship pursuit, and their new style is designed to hurt the opposition while playing quickly.

The team are likewise crossing the ball with increased frequency to generate additional opportunities.

Among the striker's three goals so far originated from a spot-kick but this occurred at a time Saka had already been replaced in the five-nil victory over United.

Arteta stated the Swedish striker represents the best spot-kick specialist at the club in an interview with the sports network, yet it was the English international that assumed the spot-kick during the victory against the Hammers when both were present on the field, suggesting the England winger could be the primary option for penalties this term.

Teammate Support & Belief

Saka, that completed his two hundredth English top flight appearance with the Gunners in the victory this weekend, has backed the Swedish striker to thrive.

"In my opinion Viktor's performing extremely well," Saka said post-game with West Ham.

"There's no doubt he's going to score goals. What he's providing to this team, us as his team-mates, we're so appreciative for what he does - how he holds the ball, how he makes the runs, the threat he provides us.

"He's 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 his abilities. I don't believe there's any concerns. He's still positive, he's still happy and he's consistently providing maximum effort every game."

Future Prospects for The Striker

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

The striker started the season playing catch-up regarding his fitness following a disrupted summer preparation.

The German's fitness issue has meant he has been thrust into situations earlier than perhaps anticipated - it has also meant the connections with midfielders behind him which haven't fully developed are being highlighted.

Gyokeres represents a willing movement maker and consistently looks for {space|g