Mikel Arteta has defended Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres after another quiet outing in a big game, as the Gunners bagged a late equaliser in a 1-1 draw against Manchester City at the Emirates. The £64 million summer signing failed to register a single shot or create any real danger against Pep Guardiola's side, leaving frustrated fans questioning his impact.
Gyokeres' abysmal stats in Man City draw
Gyokeres lasted the full 90 minutes but registered just 24 touches on the ball, fewer than any other outfield player on the pitch. He recorded zero shots, zero dribbles, and lost possession 13 times, with a passing accuracy of just 62%. Arsenal ultimately relied on a late equaliser from Gabriel Martinelli to salvage a point after Erling Haaland’s opener for City. However, Arteta has launched a defence of Gyokeres, insisting the team has to do more to play to his strengths.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportArteta launches 'trying his best' defence for Gyokeres
Arteta told reporters when quizzed on Gyokeres' struggles: “Well, there were a lot of very good balls in the box, especially I remember three of them that he was very, very close to doing against City. To have very big open chances is extremely difficult, but he's certainly trying his best and trying to do that and we have to provide more for him, that's it. There were a lot of situations where the chances were there and then the final pass was missing today. In many moments it was very, very open.”
Getty ImagesGyokeres struggling against top opposition
Gyokeres has so far failed to impose himself in Arsenal’s biggest fixtures, with his three goals coming against newly promoted Leeds United and struggling Nottingham Forest. His lack of impact against title rivals is raising concerns, especially given the club’s heavy investment in his services. Arteta’s public backing shows he remains confident in the Swede, but pressure is mounting for him to deliver on the biggest stage.
Next up for Arsenal: Port Vale then Newcastle
Arsenal face Newcastle United away in their next Premier League fixture; however, they will first turn their attention to a midweek Carabao Cup third-round tie against Port Vale. Arteta will likely rotate his squad for the trip to Stoke-on-Trent, but Gyokeres will be expected to start again when the Gunners arrive at St James' Park next Sunday.