Viktor Gyokeres has finally found his goalscoring touch, but trophies remain his primary objective. The Arsenal striker has netted 21 goals across all competitions, with 17 goal involvements since the turn of the year, hitting peak form at the business end of the season.
Gyokeres Silences Doubters
The 27-year-old Sweden international was on target in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid, scored twice against Fulham last Saturday, and is enjoying his hottest streak since his £64 million arrival last summer. Despite beginning to win over critics, Gyokeres is far more focused on winning major prizes as Premier League leaders Arsenal prepare for their Champions League semi-final second leg at the Emirates.
Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has told his players they can “define the history of the club,” a sentiment driving Gyokeres rather than personal accolades.
“Yes, you want to score goals and to reach that is a good thing,” Gyokeres said. “But the most important things are coming this month, so we will have to do our job and see where it gets us. I think we are in this position for a reason. We have done very well throughout the season, but now, with these games coming, we need to perform well to get us over the line. It has been incredible so far, but we have to do it now.”
International Heroics Boost Confidence
Gyokeres’ form has coincided with helping Sweden reach the World Cup finals, scoring a hat-trick against Ukraine in the semi-finals and a dramatic late winner in the play-off final against Poland. Being a national hero has likely boosted his confidence, and belief now runs through his veins. Signed to be the 20-goal-a-season striker Arsenal needed, he was reluctant to discuss personal targets.
“To do that with your country and contribute to reaching the World Cup, especially how our qualification was incredible, it was amazing to achieve that and be part of it,” he said. “Of course it gives me a lot of confidence. But it’s down to these games coming. After that, we can speak about targets.”
Mindset and Adaptation
Known among teammates for his incredible mindset and unshakeable belief, Gyokeres has faced doubts along the way. His hold-up play and pace have been questioned, and he has been compared unfavorably to strikers like Alexander Isak, Joao Pedro, and Hugo Ekitike. However, he recalled advice from Mikel Arteta before signing about the challenge of adapting to English football.
“For me, I don’t try to think too much about it. You’re ready, and when you get your chance to play, you want to prove yourself and do well. I think I’ve done that before, and every player is better when they have confidence. It’s about keeping going in football, no matter what happens. You have to go again and again. There are so many games.”
On the biggest challenge, he added: “Adapting to a new routine and a new country, because you have changed everything in your life. You have to do it quickly and be ready for all the challenges coming. There are always challenges throughout the season, and you have to deal with them the best possible way and do better the next game.”
Penalty Prowess
Gyokeres’ penalty in the first leg leveled the tie. He has now scored 27 consecutive successful penalties. Despite his reputation for smashing spot kicks, he remains understated and monotone in interviews. When asked his secret, he said: “Just don’t try to think too much and just put it in the back of the net. That’s what goes through my mind.” Asked if the squad has been practicing penalties, he replied: “No comment.”
Gyokeres lets his football do the talking, and with Arsenal on the brink of glory, his contributions could prove decisive.
