Arteta Backs Gyökeres to Elevate Arsenal After Breakthrough Goal

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta backs Gyökeres to lead Arsenal’s attack after the Swedish striker’s first goal sparks optimism at the Emirates.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes Viktor Gyökeres can play a key role in the club’s ambitions this season and backs the ex-Sporting striker after he scored his first goal for the Gunners.

The Swedish international, who arrived at the Emirates in a high-profile summer move from Sporting CP opened his Arsenal account in style, with a clinical finish that helped Arsenal secure a 3-0 win over Athletic Club, marking a promising start to his Premier League journey.

Speaking after the match, Arteta praised Gyökeres’ adaptability and work ethic.

“Viktor has settled in very quickly. We knew his qualities — strength, movement, and that instinct in front of goal. This first goal is just the beginning; he has so much more to give,” Arteta said.

The 27-year-old forward had faced mounting expectations following his arrival, with fans eager to see whether he could replicate the prolific form he showed in Portugal, where he scored 43 goals in all competitions last season.

Gyökeres’ strike seemed to lift the mood among supporters, who have been craving a reliable goalscorer to complement Arsenal’s attacking options, including Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Leandro Trossard. His combination of power, hold-up play, and clinical finishing could provide Arteta with a new dimension in attack.

Arteta emphasised that the focus now is on building Gyökeres’ confidence and integrating him fully into Arsenal’s system.

“Strikers thrive on goals. This will help him settle even more and push himself to higher levels. We believe he can be a decisive player for us this season,” the Spaniard added.

Arsenal will hope that Gyökeres’ breakthrough moment is a sign of things to come, as the club continues its push for domestic and European success. With tough fixtures on the horizon, Arteta will be counting on his new No. 9 to keep delivering in front of goal.

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