Mikel Arteta Told Arsenal Summer Signing “Isn’t the Solution” as Tactical Flaws Emerge

Emmanuel Petit warns Mikel Arteta that Arsenal’s summer signing Viktor Gyökeres may not fit the system as flaws begin to show.

Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has warned manager Mikel Arteta that the club’s new summer signing, Viktor Gyökeres, may not be the solution to Arsenal’s attacking problems. Despite a big-money move from Sporting CP, Gyökeres’ playing style appears to clash with Arteta’s tactical system.

Arsenal signed Viktor Gyökeres for £64 million, hoping he would solve their striker dilemma. Known for his pace and direct attacking play, Gyökeres thrives in counter-attacking situations. However, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal relies on possession-based football and structured build-up, which may not suit the striker’s strengths.

Gyokeres prefers to run into space behind defenders,” Petit told AS. “Arsenal rely too much on possession, which doesn’t play to his strengths.”

Under Arteta, Arsenal often deploy deep-dropping wingers and multiple midfielders to control the game. Petit argues this setup leaves little room for Gyokeres to operate effectively.

“When wingers drop deep, the pitch becomes empty,” Petit explained. “It’s hard for Gyokeres to find space and make runs.”

Gyökeres struggled in his debut against Manchester United, where he appeared isolated and ineffective. Although he scored twice against Leeds, the inconsistency has led to questions about his long-term fit in the squad.

Arteta admitted the team missed several chances to release Gyökeres in behind, saying there were “seven, eight situations” where the right pass wasn’t made. This highlights a disconnect between the striker’s movement and the team’s execution.

Tactical Flexibility Needed

Petit suggested that Arsenal may need to return to a more direct, counter-attacking style—similar to their approach in the 2022/23 season. This would better suit Gyökeres and allow players like Martinelli and Saka to thrive in transition.

Without tactical flexibility, Arsenal risks underutilizing a major investment and missing out on Gyökeres’ full potential.

The arrival of Viktor Gyökeres has added depth to Arsenal’s squad, but Emmanuel Petit’s warning suggests that tactical changes may be necessary. If Mikel Arteta Arsenal summer signing is to succeed, the manager must adapt his system or risk another high-profile signing falling short.

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