Gyökeres at Arsenal: Big-Game Impact Under Scrutiny After Walcott’s Verdict

Viktor Gyökeres joined Arsenal Football Club in 2025. The Swedish striker arrived with a massive reputation. He had scored an incredible 54 goals in 52 games for Sporting CP in Portugal. His transfer fee was reported to be around £63.5 million.

This signing was meant to solve Arsenal’s long-standing search for a prolific striker. However, the adaptation to English football has presented new challenges. His role in crucial matches is now being questioned by former players and pundits alike.

Theo Walcott Delivers Frank Assessment on Sky Sports

Theo Walcott, the former Arsenal forward, recently offered a blunt analysis. He was speaking as a pundit on Sky Sports. Walcott directly compared Gyökeres to teammate Mikel Merino.

“I think Mikel Merino is more trusted in the big games,” Walcott stated. He added that Merino is a player whose performance is reliable and predictable. Walcott suggested Gyökeres would currently serve more as an impact substitute in important fixtures.

This commentary highlights a key narrative. Despite his goal-scoring pedigree, Gyökeres has yet to be seen as the automatic starter in Arsenal’s most significant matches. The trust appears to lie elsewhere within the squad.

Examining the Goal-Scoring Record in England

The statistics at Arsenal tell a specific story. Gyökeres has scored six goals in his first 15 appearances for the club. This is a respectable return for a player in a new league.

However, a closer look reveals a pattern. His Premier League goals have come against Leeds United, Burnley, and Nottingham Forest. These are all teams involved in the relegation battle last season.

He has not yet found the net in a high-profile clash against a direct rival. This fuels the discussion about his ability to decide the biggest games. According to reports from Reuters, his recent return from a muscle injury has also affected his continuity.

The Road Ahead for Arsenal’s Record Signing

The transition from Portuguese football is notoriously difficult. The Premier League is faster, more physical, and tactically demanding. Gyökeres is navigating this while carrying a hefty price tag.

Competition within the squad is fierce. Mikel Merino’s versatility and recent crucial goals, like his equalizer against Chelsea, have made him a valuable asset. The manager, Mikel Arteta, values players who deliver under the severest pressure.

Gyökeres undoubtedly possesses the talent. His phenomenal season in Portugal was no fluke. The coming months will be critical for him to translate that form into decisive moments for Arsenal.

The success of Arsenal’s major investment hinges on Viktor Gyökeres transforming from a prolific scorer into a proven big-game player. His journey at the Emirates Stadium is just beginning, but the expectations are already at their peak.

A quick knowledge drop for you

How many goals did Viktor Gyökeres score for Sporting CP?

He scored a remarkable 54 goals in just 52 games during his final season in Portugal. This incredible form prompted Arsenal to make their move.

What was Viktor Gyökeres’ transfer fee to Arsenal?

Multiple reports, including from the BBC, indicated a transfer fee of approximately £63.5 million. This made him one of Arsenal’s most expensive signings.

What did Theo Walcott say about Gyökeres?

Speaking on Sky Sports, Walcott said Merino is “more trusted in the big games.” He suggested Gyökeres would initially be more of an impact player in major fixtures.

Has Gyökeres scored against top teams for Arsenal?

As of now, his Premier League goals have come against teams fighting relegation. He is yet to score in a league match against a traditional top-six rival.

What is the main challenge for Gyökeres at Arsenal?

The main challenge is adapting his game to the Premier League and proving he can be the decisive difference-maker in the season’s most critical matches.