Assessing Viktor Gyokeres' Arsenal Beginning: 10 Games, 3 Scores

Arsenal have enjoyed a strong beginning to the campaign, securing victories in eight from their first ten games, but it has not been as easy for recent forward Viktor Gyokeres.

Following three goals in his initial four matches, this £64m acquisition hasn't scored for six consecutive games, as head coach Mikel Arteta saying he offered the Sweden striker an embrace after the weekend's two-nil win against West Ham for his hard work.

Game Time and Team Dynamics

The Swedish striker has played full matches across six of Arsenal's opening ten games - more than Arteta initially intended for, with the fitness issue to the German midfielder limiting the ability Arteta has to rotate the 27-year-old.

The German player is one of Arteta's key squad members and there is a case to be made suggesting Havertz would have been selected in place of the Swedish striker during big away matches versus the Reds - Arsenal's only defeat of the campaign - the Magpies and Manchester United, games that they emerged victorious from.

There is also the fact Gyokeres didn't have a full pre-season prior to arriving, while missed squad sessions with his former club when he looked to force through a transfer toward Arsenal.

Scoring History & Anticipations

But Gyokeres represents a immediate impact addition, that notched ninety-seven times in one hundred two games for Sporting during two seasons at the Lisbon-based club.

The striker's lack of goals aren't an issue since Arsenal are securing victories currently, yet he represents a player who was signed to the club to help the team over the line as they attempt to secure their first trophy after two thousand twenty.

Coach's Viewpoint and Team Adaptation

Arteta has shown an appreciation of the striker's work rate during the opening matches while showered compliments upon the forward regarding his contributions that often goes unnoticed whenever the chance has presented itself.

In the aftermath of Arsenal's victory against the Greek side, he called the striker's display "outstanding" while commended the player's "work-rate".

At the time Arsenal acquired the Swedish international, existed a feeling his inclusion would create opportunities for the multiple offensive players the team possess behind him including Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, the creative midfielder plus the Brazilian forward.

Statistical Analysis

Arsenal have changed their approach this campaign to move possession between the lines more quickly and have adjusted their strategy to become more vertical.

This is partially to get the maximum from the Swedish striker, that does not look to drop deeper to link play similar to Havertz, rather whose primary attribute is considered to be making runs through both defenders toward the gaps behind them.

When watching the Gunners currently, it can be seen the central players are looking to find passes that could release the striker for opportunities.

This is shown by the 23 opportunities Gyokeres has had, however he has only managed seven shots on target with those opportunities in 10 matches, with one being from the penalty spot.

Tactical Adjustments & Squad Support

The Gunners struggled to break down opponents in a low block last season when they faded in the championship pursuit, and their revised approach is designed to hurt opponents by maintaining tempo.

Arsenal are also crossing more regularly with increased frequency to generate additional opportunities.

One of the striker's 3 goals this season originated from the penalty spot however that was at a time the English winger was already been substituted during the 5-0 victory over Leeds.

The manager stated the Swedish striker is the top penalty taker in the squad in an interview with ESPN Brazil, but the duty fell to the English international that assumed the spot-kick in the victory over West Ham while both were on the pitch, suggesting the English winger might be first choice to take them this term.

Squad Member Support and Confidence

Saka, that made his 200th English top flight appearance with the Gunners during the win on Saturday, has backed the Swedish striker to thrive.

"I think Gyokeres' playing really, really well," Saka said post-game against the Hammers.

"Without question he's going to find the net. The contributions he's bringing to this team, us as his colleagues, we are extremely grateful of what he delivers - how he holds the ball, how he makes movements, the danger he provides us.

"He represents a big part of the reason we're securing victories in these matches. His scoring will come. We know that, we believe that while we have faith in his abilities. I don't think there are concerns. He remains positive, he's still happy while he's still providing his best each match."

Future Prospects for Gyokeres

It's reasonable to state it hasn't proven the most straightforward beginning for the Swedish international, but that does not mean there aren't indicators to show things will become improved.

The striker began the campaign attempting catch-up regarding his fitness after a disrupted pre-season.

Havertz's injury has meant him being thrust into situations sooner than possibly planned - it has also meant the relationships with midfielders supporting him which haven't quite clicked have been highlighted.

The striker represents a eager movement maker while consistently seeks out {space|g