Theo Walcott Tips Viktor Gyokeres to Be Arsenal’s Champions League Game-Changer

Theo Walcott believes Viktor Gyokeres can be Arsenal’s key to Champions League success despite his recent dip in goal-scoring form.

Former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott has voiced his belief that Viktor Gyokeres could prove decisive in Arsenal’s Champions League campaign this season, hailing the Swedish striker as the player capable of transforming the Gunners’ European fortunes.

Now a club ambassador and pundit, Walcott has thrown his full support behind Gyokeres, Arsenal’s £64 million summer signing from Sporting Lisbon. While the striker has endured a brief goal drought, Walcott insists his all-round quality and mental strength will soon make the difference.

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“He’s got the pedigree from his time in Portugal, and he’s already shown flashes of brilliance here. If he finds his rhythm, he could be the difference between a good run and lifting the trophy,” Walcott said, as quoted by Metro.

Gyokeres enjoyed a prolific spell in Europe last season, scoring six goals in eight Champions League appearances for Sporting. He began life in North London impressively with three goals in his first four Premier League matches but has since gone seven games without finding the net.

Despite that, Walcott remains confident, citing Gyokeres’ physicality, pressing intensity, and ability to create chances for teammates. His crucial assist for Gabriel Martinelli in Arsenal’s recent Champions League win over Olympiacos underscored his growing influence.

Arsenal’s European Ambitions

After reaching the semi-finals last season, Arsenal are determined to take the final step under Mikel Arteta. Walcott believes Gyokeres can be the spark the team needs to convert dominance into decisive moments on the biggest stage.

He added that Arsenal’s attacking evolution under Arteta demands a striker who combines power, composure, and tactical intelligence — traits Gyokeres has already shown in abundance.

“He’s the kind of forward who can change a tie on his own. You don’t get many of those,” Walcott explained.

With crucial Champions League fixtures ahead, all eyes will be on Gyokeres to rediscover his scoring touch and validate Walcott’s faith. Arsenal supporters will hope his early-season form returns at the perfect time, as the club chases its first-ever European crown.

If Gyokeres can replicate his Sporting Lisbon form and remain consistent in front of goal, he could become the game changer that Theo Walcott has predicted, as well as Arsenal’s driving force in their Champions League quest.

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