Viktor Gyokeres could be set for a return to Arsenal's starting line-up against Leeds United after scoring three goals for Sweden during the international break, while Kai Havertz is a major doubt for the match due to injury.
The striker had trudged off the pitch at Brighton earlier this season with his shoulders down, having failed to score a goal and started no Premier League games. But he will be walking chest out when he steps off his flight to London next week after a productive spell with his country.
Gyokeres broke his duck in Stockholm against Romania, sealed Sweden's win over Poland, and then helped them earn a handy point away to Bosnia and Herzegovina. He will no doubt be looking to cash in when Sweden play winless Romania again on Monday, but he will also have one eye on making sure he is fit for Saturday's clash with Leeds.
Havertz injury opens the door
As fate would have it, Kai Havertz is a major doubt for Arsenal's next fixture after suffering an injury for Germany. The Gunners were then hit with another blow when Christos Tzolis went down in Greece's game on Thursday. It means that Arteta is likely to be forced into making two changes to his starting line-up against Leeds.
Gyokeres has largely played second fiddle to Havertz this season, featuring in only five of Arsenal's seven games. Arteta clearly favours the German, and his decision has been justified, with Havertz starting the campaign strongly by scoring three goals. But injury could curtail his good form.
In contrast, Gyokeres is just hitting his stride. His run of goals has seen him break a record by becoming the first player to score in six successive Nations League matches, stretching back to the 2024-25 edition.
Favourable fixture and busy schedule
Even Arsenal's next opponent is favourable for Gyokeres. The 28-year-old scored three times in two games against Leeds last season, including a brace on his home debut.
After the visit of Leeds, the games come thick and fast. Arsenal resume their Champions League campaign at home to Lille on October 13 before travelling to Nottingham Forest and Bayern Munich over the following eight days.
Gyokeres' situation is a reminder of how quickly things can change in football. A matter of weeks ago, the former Sporting Lisbon hitman was being tipped for the exit door. A swap deal involving Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez was mooted but never materialised.
Gyokeres committed to Arsenal
Gyokeres, though, is 'extremely happy' to be at the Emirates. "Of course, there was a lot of speculation," Gyokeres acknowledged earlier this week. "But I had a full pre-season, and it felt good. I was fully focused on Arsenal. For me, staying was a given. I'm extremely happy at the club."
"It's clear that I want to play football as much as possible. Hopefully that will come, too. You always want to be on the field as a football player. Of course, you expect more playing time, but we have an extremely good squad with a lot of good players and have been doing well here at the start."
