Troy Deeney Claims £65m Arsenal Star Could Keep Gyokeres Out of Starting XI

Troy Deeney says Kai Havertz could keep Viktor Gyokeres out of Arsenal’s XI. Can the £55m striker prove himself in the Premier League?

Arsenal signed Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP for £64 million to boost their attack. The Swedish striker arrived with an impressive record, having scored 97 goals and assisted 28 times in 102 games. He now wears Thierry Henry’s iconic No. 14 shirt, symbolizing the high hopes placed on him.

Troy Deeney Questions Gyokeres’ Premier League Readiness

Former Premier League striker Troy Deeney has doubts about Gyokeres’ ability to succeed in England. Speaking to The Sun, he said:

“I am not convinced Viktor Gyokeres will score as many goals for Arsenal as people think. The shirt is a bit heavier to wear than at Sporting.”

Deeney believes Gyokeres benefited from Sporting’s dominance in possession. He also pointed to Gyokeres’ struggles at Brighton and his dip in form after Sporting’s manager left.

Arsenal Viktor Gyokeres: Kai Havertz Could Keep Gyokeres on the Bench

Deeney thinks Kai Havertz might be preferred in Arsenal’s starting lineup. Havertz joined from Chelsea for £65 million and has impressed in a central role.

“If Havertz goes on a run, then Gyokeres doesn’t get back in,” Deeney said.

Both players scored in a recent pre-season match, but only one will likely lead the line when the season begins.

Havertz plays as a false nine. He drops deep, links play, and presses well—traits Mikel Arteta values. Gyokeres is a traditional striker who relies on space and service to score. Deeney questions whether Gyokeres can deliver in big games, like at Anfield or against top-six teams.

Arsenal’s Transfer Strategy Under Scrutiny

Deeney also criticized Arsenal’s approach to signing Gyokeres. He said long and showed interest in other strikers like Benjamin Sesko.

“The delay and interest in Sesko set off alarm bells,” Deeney added.

This could suggest Arsenal had doubts about Gyokeres from the beginning.

Arsenal face Manchester United in their Premier League opener. Fans are eager to see who starts—Gyokeres or Havertz. Some believe Gyokeres will shine due to his physicality and goal-scoring record. Others agree with Deeney, believing that he may struggle to adapt.

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