Former Arsenal star Stefan Schwarz has raised questions about Viktor Gyokeres' physical condition, suggesting the Swedish striker needs to become "lighter" to reach his full potential at the Emirates Stadium.
Fitness Concerns From Former Gunner
Schwarz, who spent the 1994-95 season with Arsenal after moving from Benfica, believes Gyokeres' "heavy" build could be limiting his effectiveness in front of goal. The ex-midfielder told Hajper that while the forward possesses undeniable quality, his physical condition requires attention.
"He needs to get his fitness up," Schwarz stated. "Hopefully, he'll start to create and score goals, have a good run, get that real boost, and get a bit lighter because he's a heavy player. I think that would help."
The comments come despite Gyokeres making six goals in 14 appearances since his £64million summer move from Sporting Lisbon, with manager Mikel Arteta publicly praising his "phenomenal" work ethic.
History Repeating for Powerful Striker
This isn't the first time the 27-year-old striker has faced criticism about his powerful 6ft 2in frame. Gyokeres encountered similar comments during his time in Portugal, where some observers labelled him "fat" during his first pre-season with Sporting.
"People always talk," Gyokeres previously responded. "There is always some kind of talk. I think there was some who called me fat when I came to my first pre-season with Sporting after I signed."
The statistics tell a different story about Gyokeres' physical capabilities. Last season, his fastest speed in the Champions League reached 34.5 km/h - nearly matching Tottenham's notoriously rapid defender Micky van de Ven, who has clocked 34.6km/h this season.
Arteta's Confidence Unshaken
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta appears completely satisfied with his summer signing, emphasising the importance of mental strength over temporary goal droughts. The Swedish international recently ended a seven-game scoreless run and has found the net in two of his last three outings.
"I'm very pleased with what he's given to the team," Arteta said. "I told him before the first meeting: the nine that I want is a nine that when he doesn't score for six or eight games, he can handle that. If not, you have to go somewhere else."
Gyokeres has started in every Arsenal match this season except their 2-0 Carabao Cup victory at Port Vale, where he appeared as a substitute. Schwarz acknowledged the striker's potential within Arsenal's "fantastic squad" but suggested the Premier League demands more from players.
"Sometimes the dog who barks loudest is not always the strongest," Schwarz noted. "I think it's just the players in the Premier League. They are more powerful players, faster players."
The former Gunner, who reached the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup final with Arsenal before moving to Fiorentina, believes Gyokeres will eventually adapt and thrive in North London, citing the importance of building understanding with teammates over time.
