Analyzing Gyokeres' Arsenal Opening: 10 Matches, 3 Scores

Arsenal have made an impressive beginning this campaign, securing victories in 8 from their opening 10 games, however it has not been as straightforward for new striker Viktor Gyokeres.

After three goals in his first four matches, this £64m signing has not found the net for six matches, with head coach Mikel Arteta revealing he offered the Swedish striker a hug after Saturday's two-nil victory against the Hammers in recognition of his efforts.

Game Time & Squad Factors

Gyokeres has played 90 minutes in six of Arsenal's opening 10 matches - beyond the manager initially intended him to play, due to the knee injury affecting the German midfielder restricting the ability the manager possesses to rest the 27-year-old.

The German player represents one of the manager's most reliable players and there is an argument to be made that Havertz might have started in place of the Swedish striker during big road matches versus the Reds - Arsenal's sole loss of the season - the Magpies plus Manchester United, games that they won.

Additionally, there's the fact the striker didn't have complete summer preparation before joining, while skipped team sessions at Sporting when he attempted to force through a move to north London.

Scoring History & Anticipations

However the Swedish international is a immediate impact addition, that scored ninety-seven times across 102 appearances with his previous club during two seasons at the Lisbon-based team.

The striker's drought in scoring aren't an issue as Arsenal are winning currently, yet he represents an athlete that was brought in to get the team across the finish line as they attempt to win their initial trophy since 2020.

Coach's Viewpoint and Squad Adaptation

The Arsenal manager has demonstrated an appreciation of the striker's effort in the opening games and heaped compliments upon the forward regarding his work which can go unnoticed when the opportunity has presented itself.

Following of Arsenal's win against Olympiacos, he described the forward's display "outstanding" and commended his "effort level".

At the time the club signed the Swedish international, existed a feeling his inclusion would create the space for the various offensive talents Arsenal possess supporting him in the Norwegian captain, the English winger, the creative midfielder plus Gabriel Martinelli.

Statistical Analysis

The North London club have altered their style this season to get the ball between the lines more quickly while have adjusted their strategy to be more vertical.

This is in part to extract the maximum out of the Swedish striker, who does not look to drift into midfield to link play similar to the German, rather whose strength is felt as running between both defenders and into the gaps in behind.

When watching the Gunners this season, it can be seen the midfielders are attempting for passes that could free the striker for opportunities.

This is shown by the 23 opportunities the forward has received, but he has only managed seven shots on target from those chances in ten games, including one being from a spot-kick.

Strategic Changes & Team Backing

The Gunners struggled to break down opponents employing defensive setup last season as they fell away during the championship pursuit, and their revised style aims to hurt the opposition while maintaining tempo.

The team are also crossing the ball with increased frequency to generate more chances.

One of the striker's three scores so far came from a spot-kick however this occurred at a time Saka had already been replaced in the 5-0 victory over United.

The manager said the Swedish striker represents the top spot-kick specialist in the squad during a discussion with the sports network, yet it was Saka that assumed the spot-kick in the win against West Ham while both were on the field, suggesting the English winger might be the primary option to take them this term.

Squad Member Support & Belief

The Arsenal winger, who completed his two hundredth Premier League appearance with the Gunners in the victory this weekend, has expressed confidence in Gyokeres to succeed.

"In my opinion Viktor's performing extremely well," the Englishman stated post-game with the Hammers.

"Without question he will score goals. What he's bringing to the squad, us as his team-mates, we're so grateful for what he does - the manner he retains possession, how he makes the runs, the danger he gives us.

"He represents a significant component why we're winning these matches. His scoring will come. We're aware, we believe that and we believe in him. I don't believe there's any doubts. He's still up, he's still happy and he's consistently providing his best every game."

Upcoming Prospects Regarding Gyokeres

It's reasonable to state it hasn't proven the easiest beginning for Gyokeres, but that does not mean there are not indicators suggesting things will get better.

The striker started the campaign playing catch-up with his conditioning following an interrupted pre-season.

Havertz's injury has meant he has been thrust into situations earlier compared to possibly anticipated - it has also meant the relationships with creative players behind him that have not quite clicked have been emphasized.

The striker is a willing movement maker and constantly seeks out {space|g