Rooney Backs Eze to Unlock Gyokeres and Transform Arsenal’s Attack

Wayne Rooney says the Eze and Gyokeres Arsenal duo can unlock attacking potential, urging Arteta to unleash them for more open-play goals.

Rooney tips Arsenal to unleash Eberechi Eze and Viktor Gyokeres as a dynamic duo capable of transforming their Premier League attack. The former Manchester United striker believes Eze holds the key to unlocking Gyokeres’ full potential in the final third.

In particular, Rooney praised Arsenal’s summer signing of Eze from Crystal Palace, calling him a flair player who can elevate the team’s attacking play. Although Eze made only a brief debut appearance against Liverpool, Rooney remains confident that his influence will grow quickly.

“They’ve brought in Eze to be a part of that,” Rooney said on Match of the Day. “They’ve got some good flair players, so I’d like to see more attacking in open play to score and create goals from different opportunities rather than set pieces.”

In doing so, Rooney’s comments highlight his belief that Eze can help Arsenal shift away from set-piece reliance and generate more fluid chances in open play.

Gyokeres Needs Eze’s Support

Viktor Gyokeres has struggled to find his rhythm in the Premier League. Against Liverpool, defenders Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté effectively shut him down. Rooney acknowledged their dominance but emphasized Arsenal’s need to adapt.

“Liverpool were fantastic in the individual battles,” Rooney noted. “They weren’t afraid to go in on Arsenal, especially on Gyokeres. I thought the back four were excellent in how they did that”.

Rooney believes Eze can provide the creative service Gyokeres needs to thrive—linking midfield to attack and unlocking space for the striker to operate.

Arteta Faces Tactical Decisions

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta must solve a tactical puzzle. With Gabriel Martinelli inconsistent on the left and Gyokeres needing better support, integrating Eze into a central or free role could be the answer. Moreover, Rooney’s analysis suggests Eze’s movement and creativity between the lines could be the missing link in Arsenal’s system.

Rooney’s tactical insight gives Arteta a clear direction: build around Eze to unlock Gyokeres. If Eze continues to grow into his role, he could become the heartbeat of Arsenal’s attack—and the key to maximizing Gyokeres’ impact.

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