Viktor Gyökeres Breaks Silence: “It’s All Part of Arteta’s Plan”: Arsenal new striker reveals reasons why he is not in the top goal scorer in the Premier League already, it is part of the team plan and everything will……
In a surprising yet revealing interview this week, Arsenal striker Viktor Gyökeres finally addressed growing concerns over his recent goal drought since joining the North London side. The Swedish forward, known for his explosive scoring record at Sporting CP, has found the net only twice in his first 10 Premier League appearances — a stark contrast to his lethal form in Portugal.
But according to Gyökeres, the lack of goals is not a sign of failure — it’s intentional.
“I know people expect goals, and I expect them too,” he told reporters after Arsenal’s draw at the Emirates. “But the way Mikel (Arteta) wants us to play is different. It’s not about me being the main finisher every time — it’s about movement, pressing, and creating space for others.”
At Sporting, Gyökeres thrived as the focal point of the attack, bagging over 40 goals in all competitions last season. Every play flowed through him — his runs, his power, his precision in the box. At Arsenal, though, the Swede has been used more as a link-up striker, often dropping deep or drifting wide to open channels for Saka, Martinelli, and Odegaard.
Arteta’s system demands collective execution rather than individual heroics. It’s a style that prioritizes control, patience, and positional fluidity — something that often leaves the main striker appearing isolated or underused in front of goal.
“At Sporting, I was the finisher. Here, I’m more of a connector,” Gyökeres explained. “The coach wants me to stretch defenses, occupy the center-backs, and help others get into good positions. Sometimes that means fewer goals, but more balance.”
Indeed, a closer look at the stats supports his claim. Gyökeres ranks among Arsenal’s top three players for expected assists (xA) this season and leads the team in pressing actions per 90 minutes, showing how much off-the-ball work he’s doing to set the tone for Arteta’s high-energy press.
Still, fans are divided. Some believe Arteta’s tactical rigidity is neutralizing one of Europe’s most natural finishers. Others applaud the Swede’s adaptability and team-first mentality.
Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright recently weighed in on BBC Sport, saying:
“Gyökeres is doing a lot of unseen work. People don’t realize how much he’s sacrificing to make that system tick. The goals will come — but right now, he’s doing exactly what the boss asks.”
As for Gyökeres, patience seems to be his watchword.
“The goals will return, I’m not worried,” he smiled. “When the team wins, everyone shines in their own way. That’s the Arsenal way now.”
Whether Arteta’s long-term plan pays off remains to be seen —