Viktor Gyokeres Must Step Up to Secure Arsenal Spot with Gabriel Jesus’ Return – The Radar
The current performance of Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres has become a focal point of discussion as the player vies for a secure spot with the impending return of Gabriel Jesus. After joining the club for £55 million from Sporting, Gyokeres has struggled significantly. He has not scored in 11 out of 14 Premier League appearances this season, leading to intense scrutiny of his role on the team.
Viktor Gyokeres’ Performance Challenges
Gyokeres’ scoring record contrasts sharply with that of Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, who has netted 17 goals this season. While Arsenal remains atop the Premier League standings, Gyokeres’ impact has been far from what was expected when he joined the club in July.
Statistics Reveal Struggles
- Gyokeres has a duel success rate that has fallen from 50% in the Primeira Liga to just 37% this season.
- In the recent match against Wolves, he recorded only 15 touches and a single shot on goal.
- His average of 0.76 one-touch shots per 90 minutes pales in comparison to Haaland’s 1.85.
- Overall, he averages 1.98 shots per game, ranking him 45th among forwards in the league.
The stark drop in output raises questions about his adaptation to the Premier League’s demands. Although Gyokeres has shown commendable work-rate, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has emphasized that goals are paramount in evaluating a striker’s performance.
Adapting to Premier League Football
Gyokeres is facing the challenge of adjusting to more competitive defenses. His ability to create space has been lacking, averaging just 3.14 meters when available for passes. For comparison, players like Haaland average significantly more space.
Role Amidst Competitors
With Gabriel Jesus returning to full fitness, Gyokeres faces stiff competition for the starting position. Jamie Carragher, a prominent football analyst, suggested that Gyokeres may struggle to assert himself as the first-choice striker with the depth in Arsenal’s attacking options.
What Lies Ahead for Gyokeres?
As the season progresses, Gyokeres must seize his opportunities to establish himself within the squad. Arsenal’s attacking strategy includes a greater emphasis on incisive passing, which could potentially suit Gyokeres’ playing style if he can improve his involvement in the build-up to attacking plays.
Failure to adapt quickly could mean lost opportunities for Gyokeres, as Arsenal pushes for title contention amidst fierce competition in the Premier League. The spotlight is on him to elevate his game and secure his place in an ambitious squad.
