The pursuit of a consistent goalscorer has become a relentless obsession for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. For over a year, the void at the top of the attack remained unfilled, forcing tactical compromises and unexpected player deployments.
Last season witnessed Kai Havertz frequently tasked with leading the line, a role far removed from his natural position. Even central midfielder Mikel Merino was occasionally thrust forward during an injury crisis, highlighting the desperate need for a specialized striker.
Despite a summer transfer window brimming with potential targets – Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike, Benjamin Sesko, and Nick Woltemade all changing clubs – Arteta zeroed in on Viktor Gyokeres, securing his signature in a competitive battle with Manchester United.
However, the decision to prioritize Gyokeres is now under scrutiny. Former Manchester United stalwarts Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt, known for their incisive footballing analysis, have questioned the forward’s potential for consistent Premier League goals.
Butt believes the signing was driven by immense pressure – the expectation to deliver a proven striker to a team consistently challenging for the title. The weight of expectation, he suggests, heavily influenced Arteta’s choice.
Scholes echoed this sentiment, adding a stark assessment: Gyokeres may have simply been the last viable option remaining. His experience playing alongside legendary goalscorers like Wayne Rooney and Ruud van Nistelrooy lends weight to his observation.
Gyokeres’ recent performance against Wolves, a scoreless outing culminating in a late substitution, has only intensified the debate. The 27-year-old is currently struggling to justify the faith placed in him.
His future at the club is now uncertain, with Gabriel Jesus returning from injury and Kai Havertz nearing full fitness. Arteta may revert to relying on these players, despite their own inconsistencies in front of goal, given Gyokeres’ current form.
The pressure to find a reliable goalscorer continues to mount on Arteta, and the spotlight will be firmly on Gyokeres as he attempts to rediscover his scoring touch in the upcoming match against Everton.
