🔗 Share this article

Arsenal have enjoyed a remarkable beginning to the campaign, winning 8 from their first ten games, but it hasn't proven quite as straightforward for new striker the Swedish attacker.

After three goals in his first four games, the £64m acquisition hasn't found the net for 6 consecutive games, as head coach Mikel Arteta revealing he offered the Sweden forward a hug after Saturday's two-nil victory over the Hammers in recognition of his contributions.

Playing Time & Squad Factors

The Swedish striker has featured for 90 minutes across six from Arsenal's first 10 games - beyond Arteta initially intended for, with the fitness issue to Kai Havertz limiting the capacity Arteta has to rest the 27-year-old.

Havertz represents one of Arteta's most reliable squad members while exists an argument to be made suggesting the German might have been selected instead of Gyokeres during important away matches against the Reds - the Gunners' only defeat this season - the Magpies and the Red Devils, games that they won.

Additionally, there's the reality the striker didn't have complete summer preparation prior to arriving, while missed squad training at his former club when he looked to secure a move toward north London.

Scoring History & Anticipations

But the Swedish international is a win-now signing, that notched 97 times across 102 appearances with Sporting in two campaigns with the Portuguese team.

The striker's drought in scoring aren't an issue since the team are securing victories at the moment, yet he is an athlete who was brought in to help the team over the line as they try to secure their initial title since 2020.

Manager's Viewpoint and Squad Adaptation

The Arsenal manager has demonstrated an appreciation for Gyokeres' work rate in the opening games while showered compliments upon the striker regarding his work that can go unnoticed when the opportunity has arisen to do so.

In the aftermath of Arsenal's victory against the Greek side, he described the forward's performance "exceptional" and commended his "work-rate".

At the time Arsenal acquired Gyokeres, existed a belief his presence would open up the space to benefit the various offensive talents the team possess behind him in Martin Odegaard, the English winger, the creative midfielder and Gabriel Martinelli.

Numerical Analysis

The North London club have altered their approach this campaign to get the ball through midfield more quickly and have adjusted their strategy to be more vertical.

This is partially to extract the best out of Gyokeres, who does not look to drop deeper to connect passes similar to the German, but his strength is considered to be making runs through the two defenders toward the space in behind.

Observing the Gunners this season, it can be seen the midfielders are looking to find the ball that could release Gyokeres for opportunities.

This is demonstrated by the 23 chances Gyokeres has had, however he has only managed seven attempts on goal with those chances in ten matches, with one coming via a spot-kick.

Tactical Changes and Squad Support

Arsenal struggled to penetrate opponents employing low block last season as they faded in the title race, so their revised style aims to hurt opponents while maintaining tempo.

The team are also crossing the ball with increased frequency to generate additional opportunities.

Among the striker's three scores this season originated from the penalty spot but that was at a time Saka had already been replaced during the 5-0 victory against Leeds.

Arteta stated the Swedish striker represents the top spot-kick specialist at the club in an interview for the sports network, but it was the English international that assumed the penalty during the win against West Ham while both were present on the field, suggesting the England winger might be first choice for penalties this season.

Squad Member Encouragement and Confidence

The Arsenal winger, who completed his two hundredth Premier League appearance with the Gunners during the win this weekend, has backed the Swedish striker to succeed.

"I think Gyokeres' playing extremely well," the Englishman said after the match with West Ham.

"Without question he will find the net. What he's providing to this team, we as his team-mates, we're so grateful for what he does - how he retains possession, the way he makes movements, the threat he gives the team.

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

Upcoming Prospects Regarding Gyokeres

It is fair to say it has not been the easiest beginning for the Swedish international, however this doesn't imply there aren't signs to show situations will become better.

The striker started the campaign attempting catch-up regarding his fitness following an interrupted summer preparation.

Havertz's injury has resulted in he has been thrust into situations earlier compared to perhaps anticipated - this has also caused the connections with creative players behind him which haven't fully developed are being emphasized.

Gyokeres is a eager runner while constantly seeks out {space|g