Mikel Arteta Gives Update on Viktor Gyokeres Head Injury After Arsenal Win

Mikel Arteta confirms Viktor Gyokeres head injury is not serious after Arsenal’s Champions League win over Athletic Bilbao.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has shared a positive update on Viktor Gyokeres’ head injury following the club’s 2–0 victory over Athletic Bilbao in the Champions League. The Swedish striker, who recently joined Arsenal from Sporting CP, suffered a head injury during the first half of the match.

During a clash with teammate Gabriel Magalhães, Viktor Gyokeres sustained a cut to the back of his head. Medical staff treated him on the pitch, and he continued playing with a bandage wrapped around his head. Despite the visible injury, Arteta confirmed that Gyokeres was not substituted due to health concerns.

“It was because we wanted to change certain things,” Arteta told Viaplay. “He’s played a lot of minutes as well, and my feeling was we needed fresh legs.”

Tactical Substitution Pays Off

Arteta replaced Gyokeres in the 65th minute with Leandro Trossard. The change proved effective, as Trossard assisted Gabriel Martinelli for the opening goal and later scored the second. Arsenal’s tactical shift helped secure the win.

Arteta also praised Gyokeres for his attitude and impact since joining the team.

“Very good. Personally, he’s an exceptional character, and as a player he brings another level to what we’ve had—a lot of threat.”

Injury Update and Next Steps

Arteta confirmed that Gyokeres is doing well and is expected to be fit for Arsenal’s upcoming Premier League match against Manchester City. Midfielder Mikel Merino, who also suffered a minor head knock, is recovering well.

Viktor Gyokeres head injury does not appear to be serious, and Arsenal fans can breathe a sigh of relief. With the team in strong form and key players healthy, Arteta’s side looks ready to continue their Champions League campaign with confidence.

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