🔗 Share this article

Arsenal have enjoyed a strong start to the season, securing victories in eight of their opening 10 games, however it's been less as straightforward for new striker the Swedish attacker.

After 3 goals during his first 4 matches, this £64m acquisition hasn't found the net in six consecutive games, with head coach the Spanish tactician saying he gave the Swedish striker an embrace after Saturday's two-nil victory against the Hammers in recognition of his contributions.

Game Minutes & Team Dynamics

The Swedish striker has played 90 minutes in six from Arsenal's opening ten matches - more than Arteta initially intended for, due to the knee injury affecting the German midfielder limiting the ability the manager possesses to rotate the 27-year-old.

The German player represents one of Arteta's most trusted players while exists an argument to be had suggesting Havertz would have started instead of Gyokeres in big away matches versus the Reds - the Gunners' sole defeat this campaign - Newcastle United and Manchester United, which they won.

There is also the reality Gyokeres did not have complete pre-season before joining, while missed squad training at his former club as he looked to force through a move toward north London.

Goal-Scoring Record and Expectations

However Gyokeres is a immediate impact addition, that notched 97 times in one hundred two games with Sporting during two seasons with the Lisbon-based club.

His lack of scoring aren't an issue as the team are winning currently, but he represents a player that was brought in to get the squad over the line as they try to win their first trophy after two thousand twenty.

Manager's Viewpoint & Squad Integration

Arteta has shown an appreciation for the striker's work rate during the opening matches while showered praise on the forward for his work which often goes unnoticed when the opportunity has arisen itself.

Following the Gunners' win over Olympiacos, he described the forward's display "exceptional" while praised the player's "effort level".

At the time Arsenal signed the Swedish international, there was a feeling his inclusion would create opportunities for the various attacking talents the team have supporting him in the Norwegian captain, the English winger, Eberechi Eze plus Gabriel Martinelli.

Statistical Analysis

Arsenal have altered their approach this campaign to move possession through midfield faster and have adjusted their tactics to be more vertical.

This represents partially to extract the maximum from Gyokeres, that does not look to drop into midfield to connect passes like Havertz, rather whose primary attribute is felt to be making runs between both defenders and into the gaps behind them.

Observing the Gunners this season, it can be seen the midfielders are attempting for the ball that could release Gyokeres for a chance.

This is shown in the twenty-three chances Gyokeres has received, but he has merely managed 7 shots on target from those chances across 10 games, including one being from the penalty spot.

Strategic Adjustments & Squad Backing

Arsenal had difficulty to break down sides in a low block previous campaign as they faded during the title race, and their new approach aims to hurt opponents by playing quickly.

Arsenal are also delivering crosses the ball with increased frequency to create more chances.

Among the striker's three scores this season came from the penalty spot however this occurred at a time Saka had already been substituted in the 5-0 win over United.

The manager stated Gyokeres is the best spot-kick specialist at the club during a discussion for ESPN Brazil, yet the duty fell to Saka who took the spot-kick in the victory against the Hammers when both were present on the field, suggesting the English winger might be first choice to take them this season.

Teammate Support and Confidence

The Arsenal winger, who completed his two hundredth English top flight appearance with the Gunners during the victory on Saturday, has backed Gyokeres to succeed.

"I think Gyokeres' playing really, really well," Saka stated after the match against West Ham.

"Without question he's going to score goals. What he's providing to the squad, us as his colleagues, we are extremely appreciative of what he does - how he holds the ball, how he makes the runs, the threat he provides us.

"He represents a significant component of the reason we're securing victories in these matches. His goals will come. We know that, we're confident while we believe in his abilities. I don't believe there's any doubts. He's still up, he's still content and he's still providing his best each match."

Future Outlook Regarding Gyokeres

It's reasonable to state it hasn't proven the easiest beginning for the Swedish international, however this doesn't imply there aren't signs suggesting situations will become better.

Gyokeres began the season attempting to recover regarding his fitness after an interrupted pre-season.

Havertz's injury has meant he has been placed into situations earlier compared to possibly anticipated - it has also meant the connections with creative players supporting him which haven't fully developed have been highlighted.

Gyokeres represents a eager movement maker while consistently looks for {space|g