Arsenal's acquisition of Viktor Gyokeres has sparked debate amongst football pundits, with questions arising about whether the Swedish international was truly Mikel Arteta's primary target. While the Gunners faithful celebrated the arrival of the prolific striker from Sporting Lisbon for a hefty £64 million, doubts have been cast on the tactical fit and the decision-making process behind the transfer.
Scholes Voices Concerns Over Gyokeres' Suitability
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has openly questioned whether Gyokeres is the 'clever' striker Arteta genuinely desired. Scholes suggests that the protracted negotiations and the club's prior interest in Benjamin Sesko indicate a potential disconnect between Arteta's vision and the eventual signing. "Arsenal needed a centre forward, I just wonder if you've chosen the right one," Scholes stated, hinting at uncertainty within the club's hierarchy.
Scholes also raised concerns about Gyokeres' ability to adapt to Arsenal's possession-based style of play. He highlighted Gyokeres' success at Sporting Lisbon, where he often thrived on counter-attacks, exploiting his pace and power. However, he questioned whether the striker possesses the tactical intelligence and subtle movement required to unlock defenses in tighter spaces, a key aspect of Arsenal's attacking approach.
Jamie Carragher Echoes the Sentiment
Jamie Carragher has also weighed in on the debate, suggesting that the signing may have been driven more by the club's sporting director, Andrea Berta. Carragher referenced reports indicating that Berta played a key role in pushing the deal through, potentially overriding Arteta's initial preferences. This has fuelled speculation about potential friction within the club's decision-making structure.
Despite the doubts, Gyokeres' goal-scoring record is undeniable. His impressive performances for Sporting Lisbon showcased his finishing prowess and physical attributes. Whether he can replicate that form in the Premier League and seamlessly integrate into Arteta's tactical system remains to be seen. Arsenal fans will be eagerly watching to see if Gyokeres can silence his doubters and prove to be the missing piece in their attacking puzzle.
Only time will tell if Viktor Gyokeres will become an Arsenal legend like Thierry Henry or a player who simply doesn't fit the system. The pressure is on for both the player and Mikel Arteta to make this high-profile transfer a success.