Arsenal's preparations for the crucial North London derby against Tottenham have been overshadowed by concerning updates about two key attacking players, with Viktor Gyokeres receiving surprising fitness criticism and Kai Havertz suffering an injury setback.
Gyokeres Weight Criticism Emerges
Former Arsenal midfielder Stefan Schwarz has made startling comments about summer signing Viktor Gyokeres, suggesting the Swedish striker needs to shed weight to excel in the Premier League. Despite scoring six goals in 14 appearances since his £64 million move, Gyokeres has sometimes lacked the explosive pace expected of an Arsenal forward.
The criticism comes at an unfortunate time for the 26-year-old, who picked up a hamstring injury during what was described as his best performance in an Arsenal shirt against Burnley on November 1st. His availability for Sunday's derby remains in doubt.
Schwarz elaborated on his concerns, stating: "I believe with Viktor Gyokeres, he's not fully fit yet. Mental tiredness may be from adapting to a new club, new expectations, and higher expectations from supporters around the whole world."
The former Gunners star didn't hold back in his assessment, adding: "Sometimes the dog who barks loudest is not always the strongest. I think it's just the players in the Premier League. They are more powerful players, faster players. 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."
Havertz Suffers Injury Relapse
In further concerning news for Mikel Arteta, German international Kai Havertz has suffered what's been described as a 'minor relapse' in his recovery from a knee injury. The 26-year-old hasn't featured since the opening weekend of the season and will definitely miss the Tottenham clash.
German national team manager Julian Nagelsmann provided the update after Germany's World Cup qualifying campaign, revealing: "Kai had a small relapse on his injury, but overall, he's doing well. If all goes well, he can play again towards the end of the year."
This timeline means Havertz faces at least another month on the sidelines, having already missed the first three months of the campaign. The setback is particularly frustrating given he previously underwent a minor surgical procedure to address the issue.
Derby Preparations Amid Injury Crisis
These developments compound Arsenal's existing injury problems as they prepare to host Tottenham at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. Before the international break, the Gunners were in exceptional form, having gone eight consecutive games without conceding a goal before a disappointing 2-2 draw at Sunderland.
Mikel Arteta will be hoping the two-week break hasn't disrupted his side's momentum after they managed to build a four-point lead at the top of the Premier League table. However, the growing injury list presents a significant challenge against a Tottenham side that, despite struggling at the Emirates in recent years, are expected to provide tough opposition.
The absence of both Gyokeres and Havertz leaves Arsenal short of attacking options for one of their most important fixtures of the season. Arteta now faces crucial selection decisions as he attempts to maintain his team's position at the summit of English football while navigating an increasingly concerning injury situation.
