Evaluating Viktor Gyokeres' Gunners Opening: Ten Games, 3 Goals

The Gunners have made a strong start this campaign, winning 8 from their first ten matches, but it hasn't proven quite as easy for new striker Viktor Gyokeres.
After 3 goals during his initial 4 matches, this expensive acquisition has not scored in 6 consecutive games, with head coach Mikel Arteta revealing he gave the Sweden striker a hug following Saturday's 2-0 victory over the Hammers for his efforts.
Playing Minutes and Squad Dynamics
The Swedish striker has featured for 90 minutes in six from Arsenal's first ten games - more than the manager initially intended him to play, with the knee injury to Kai Havertz restricting the ability the manager possesses to rotate the 27-year-old.
The German player represents one of Arteta's most trusted squad members while exists a case to be made suggesting the German would have started in place of the Swedish striker during big road fixtures against Liverpool - Arsenal's only loss this campaign - Newcastle United plus the Red Devils, games that they won.
There is also the fact Gyokeres did not have a full pre-season before arriving, while missed squad training at his former club when he attempted to force through a transfer toward north London.
Scoring Record and Anticipations
However Gyokeres represents a immediate impact signing, who notched 97 goals in one hundred two appearances for Sporting during his two campaigns with the Lisbon-based team.
The striker's lack of scoring are not a problem since the team are winning at the moment, but he represents a player that was signed to the club to get the team over the line as they attempt to secure their initial trophy since 2020.
Manager's Perspective and Team Integration
The Arsenal manager has shown an appreciation for the striker's effort during the opening games while heaped compliments on the forward regarding his contributions which can go under the radar when the opportunity has presented itself.
In the aftermath of Arsenal's win over Olympiacos, he called the forward's display "outstanding" and praised the player's "effort level".
When Arsenal signed the Swedish international, existed an expectation his presence would open up opportunities for the various offensive players the team have behind him including the Norwegian captain, the English winger, the creative midfielder plus Gabriel Martinelli.
Statistical Breakdown

The North London club have altered their style this campaign to get the ball through midfield more quickly while have adapted their tactics to become more vertical.
This is partially to get the maximum out of the Swedish striker, who doesn't attempt to drift into midfield to link play like the German, rather his strength is considered as running between the two centre-backs toward the gaps in behind.
Observing Arsenal this season, it can be seen the midfielders are attempting to find passes that could free Gyokeres for opportunities.
This is demonstrated by the twenty-three opportunities the forward has received, but he has only managed 7 attempts on goal from those opportunities in ten matches, including one coming via the penalty spot.
Tactical Adjustments & Team Support
Arsenal struggled to break down opponents employing low block previous campaign when they fell away during the title race, and their new approach aims to hurt opponents while playing quickly.
Arsenal are likewise crossing the ball with increased frequency to generate more chances.
One of Gyokeres' three scores this season originated from the penalty spot however that was when the English winger was already been replaced in the five-nil victory over Leeds.
The manager said the Swedish striker represents the best penalty taker at the club during a discussion for ESPN Brazil, yet it was the English international that assumed the penalty during the victory over the Hammers when both were present on the field, implying the England winger might be first choice to take them this season.
Squad Member Encouragement and Confidence
The Arsenal winger, that made his two hundredth English top flight appearance with the Gunners during the victory this weekend, has backed Gyokeres to succeed.
"I think Gyokeres' playing extremely impressively," Saka stated post-game against West Ham.
"Without question he will score goals. What he's bringing to the squad, we as his colleagues, we're so grateful of what he delivers - the manner he retains possession, how he makes the runs, the threat he provides us.
"He represents a big part of the reason we're winning these matches. His scoring will come. We know that, we're confident while we believe in his abilities. I don't believe there are concerns. He's still positive, he continues to be content while he's consistently giving maximum effort each match."
Future Outlook Regarding Gyokeres
It's reasonable to state it hasn't proven the most straightforward of starts for the Swedish international, however this doesn't imply there are not signs suggesting situations will become improved.
Gyokeres began the campaign attempting catch-up with his conditioning following a disrupted pre-season.
Havertz's injury has meant him being thrust into circumstances sooner than possibly planned - it has also meant the relationships with midfielders behind him that have not quite clicked are being emphasized.
The striker is a eager movement maker and constantly looks for {space|g