What does Mikel Arteta think about Gyokeres’ Arsenal debut

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·7 August 2025

What does Mikel Arteta think about Gyokeres’ Arsenal debut

Viktor Gyökeres made his full debut for Arsenal in their recent pre-season fixture against Villarreal, but it turned out to be a difficult evening for the new signing. The Swedish forward only recently completed his transfer from Sporting Club, with talks over the move causing a slight delay in his arrival. As a result, he joined the team late during their tour of Asia.

He featured briefly in the final game of that tour, but fans were particularly eager to see how he would perform in his first start against the Spanish side. This was the opportunity to make an impression and give supporters a glimpse of what to expect from the striker in the upcoming season.

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Villarreal’s Strategy Proved Effective

Villarreal came well prepared and executed a game plan that worked to perfection. Their approach focused on cutting off the supply to Arsenal’s frontman, leaving Gyökeres isolated for much of his time on the pitch. With limited service from his teammates, the striker found it difficult to get involved or create any significant goal-scoring opportunities.

As a result, he ended the game without a goal and with plenty of room for improvement. However, considering the short amount of time he has spent with the squad, this was perhaps to be expected.

Gyokeres (Photo by Yu Chun Christopher Wong/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)

Arteta Offers Perspective

Despite the underwhelming display, manager Mikel Arteta remained positive about the player’s contribution and future potential. Speaking to reporters after the match, he explained that the match was an important step in integrating the new signing into the team.

As quoted by the Daily Mail, Arteta said

“I think it was very important for him to start a match and start to have the feeling and the connection with the team.

He’s been with us only a week or so, but I really saw a lot of things and a lot of purpose, especially the way he was attacking certain spaces.

So in general, for a lot of players that haven’t played many minutes, we have a lot now that they’re going to be ready for Saturday in a much better condition.”

Gyökeres has only just joined the team and will need time to adapt to his new surroundings. With more minutes under his belt and stronger chemistry with his teammates, fans can expect his performances to improve significantly.

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