Former Arsenal star Stefan Schwarz has raised questions about Viktor Gyokeres' physical condition, suggesting the Swedish striker needs to improve his fitness to reach his full potential at the Emirates.
Schwarz's Critical Assessment
Stefan Schwarz, who spent the 1994-95 season with Arsenal before moving to Sporting, believes Gyokeres' 'heavy' build might be preventing him from reproducing the goal-scoring form he demonstrated at Sporting Lisbon. The ex-midfielder made his comments in an interview with Hajper, noting that while Gyokeres has the potential to succeed, physical improvements are necessary.
"He needs to improve his physical condition," Schwarz stated. "I think he's in the right team with Mikel Arteta and the players around him. It's a fantastic squad."
Gyokeres' Strong Start Despite Criticism
The 27-year-old striker has made a reasonable start to his Arsenal career, scoring six goals in 14 appearances across all competitions. Standing at 1.90 metres tall, Gyokeres has been praised by manager Mikel Arteta for his 'phenomenal' work ethic, with the Spanish coach apparently having no concerns about his striker's physical condition.
Gyokeres has started every match this season except for the 2-0 Carabao Cup victory against Port Vale, where he came on as a substitute. Arteta recently expressed his satisfaction with the £64 million summer signing, stating: "I'm very happy with what he's brought to the team."
History Repeating for Gyokeres
This isn't the first time the powerful Swedish forward has faced questions about his physique. Similar criticisms emerged when he joined Sporting in 2023, with some calling him "fat" during his first preseason. Gyokeres responded emphatically then, proving his doubters wrong with his performances.
"People always talk," Gyokeres previously said about such criticism. "I think there were people who called me fat when I arrived for my first preseason with Sporting after signing. There's always that kind of thinking to try to make a statement or a good headline."
Statistics suggest Gyokeres possesses explosive speed that contradicts concerns about his mobility. Last season, his top speed in the Champions League reached 34.5 km/h, comparable to Mickey van de Ven's 34.6 km/h this season - the Tottenham defender being renowned for his pace.
Schwarz's Broader Perspective
Despite his criticism, Schwarz believes Gyokeres can prosper at Arsenal, though he emphasised the striker has much to learn. "He's in a strong team," Schwarz noted. "Arsenal have been fighting for the big titles, so perhaps he can help the team take that big step."
The former Gunner highlighted the importance of understanding between players, citing Dennis Bergkamp as the perfect example. "When the midfielder makes the pass, you only have to look him in the eyes, you know where he's going to pass it. It's a relationship that takes time, and football is about small margins."
Gyokeres has recently overcome a seven-match scoring drought for Arsenal, finding the net in two of his last three appearances. With Arteta's public backing and a demonstrated ability to silence critics through performance, the Swedish international appears well-equipped to handle the heightened scrutiny that comes with playing for a Premier League title contender.
