The question hangs heavy in the air around the Emirates Stadium: is Viktor Gyokeres truly delivering on his £60 million price tag? The Swedish striker has found the net eight times in 24 league games, a respectable return, but one that hasn’t entirely silenced the doubts.
Former Liverpool star Michael Owen isn’t convinced Gyokeres is the definitive answer Arsenal needed. While acknowledging his value as a squad player, Owen wonders if he’s the “stand-out” striker a team chasing major honors requires.
The crux of Owen’s concern lies in a hypothetical scenario: a Champions League final. Would Mikel Arteta entrust Gyokeres with a starting role, or would he lean towards the experience of Gabriel Jesus or the versatility of Kai Havertz? Owen’s implication is clear – the answer speaks volumes.
It’s not a condemnation of Gyokeres’ ability, Owen stresses. He’s a capable finisher, a valuable addition to the attack. But for a club with Arsenal’s ambitions, simply being “good” isn’t enough; they need a transformative presence.
The debate isn’t isolated. Arsenal legend Ian Wright echoes the sentiment, labeling Gyokeres a “maybe.” While his goal tally meets expectations, Wright believes a more holistic assessment is needed – what is he truly *bringing* to the team beyond goals?
Wright offers a glimmer of optimism, suggesting that a successful title run could unlock Gyokeres’ full potential. The pressure of winning, the experience of competing at the highest level, might be the catalyst he needs to elevate his game.
For now, the focus shifts to immediate challenges. Arsenal face Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup, a chance to continue their pursuit of an unprecedented quadruple. The spotlight will be on Gyokeres, and every touch, every pass, every goal will be scrutinized.
The question of whether Gyokeres is a hit, a miss, or still a work in progress remains unanswered. His future at Arsenal, and his ability to justify his hefty price tag, hinges on his performance in the crucial months ahead.
