Viktor Gyökeres hasn’t been firing on all cylinders yet for Arsenal, but Alan Shearer believes patience will pay off. The 27-year-old led the line for 89 minutes in the Gunners’ narrow 1–0 victory at Fulham, a result that returned Mikel Arteta’s side to the top of the Premier League.
While Leandro Trossard grabbed the match-winner, much of the post-game discussion centred around Gyökeres’ contribution — tireless, intelligent, yet still lacking in end product. Some Arsenal fans have voiced frustration, but Shearer’s recent analysis on BBC Match of the Day offered perspective: Gyökeres is helping reshape Arsenal’s attacking dynamics in subtle but important ways.
Alan Shearer on Viktor Gyökeres being different to Kai Havertz and Mikel Merino
Shearer argued that Gyökeres’ constant willingness to stretch defences has made Arsenal less predictable compared to last season. Whereas Kai Havertz and Mikel Merino often dropped deep to link play, the Swedish striker’s instinct to run in behind forces opposing backlines to retreat, opening up space for Arsenal’s midfield creators.
“Yeah, he hasn’t got the goals — far from the level of Kane or Haaland,” said Shearer. “But one of his strengths, which has suited Arsenal, is his ability to go in behind. When he does that, it drags teams deeper, and that creates room for others. From that point of view, he’s improved Arsenal.”
Arteta shares that view, describing Gyökeres as a “different type of No.9” whose movement helps the team attack in more varied ways. The Spaniard sees him as a tactical asset who gives Arsenal an alternative to the false-nine patterns of previous campaigns.
Gyökeres’ work rate and underlying stats vs Fulham
Though Gyökeres didn’t score, his contribution went beyond numbers. Against Fulham, he registered 20 touches, three shots (two on target), and won four of seven duels. His pressing intensity repeatedly forced turnovers that helped Arsenal maintain territorial control.
| Stat (vs Fulham) | Viktor Gyökeres |
|---|---|
| Minutes Played | 89 |
| Touches | 20 |
| Shots (on target) | 3 (2) |
| Accurate Passes | 5/9 (56%) |
| Duels (won) | 7 (4) |
source: Sofascore match data – 19 October 2025
Shearer believes those foundations will soon yield results: “He’ll get the goals. With the chances Arsenal create, his numbers will improve — it’s only a matter of time.”
Why patience with Gyökeres makes tactical sense
Supporters expecting a goal glut like his 54-goal campaign at Sporting CP may need to adjust expectations. Arsenal’s system demands far more than finishing — it relies on collective movement and spacing. Gyökeres’ runs drag defenders away, giving Martin Ødegaard and Trossard lanes to exploit.
More importantly, his pressing triggers Arsenal’s counter-press. Since his arrival, the Gunners have regained possession in the final third 18% more frequently than last season, according to Opta data. That defensive-to-offensive transition is quietly becoming one of Arteta’s side’s most effective weapons.
How Gyökeres is changing Arsenal’s attacking identity
Gyökeres’ presence has also allowed Arsenal to diversify their attacking shape. In contrast to the slow, possession-heavy buildup seen last year, the Gunners are now more direct when opportunities arise. His willingness to run beyond defences gives Ødegaard and Rice more forward passing options — a dimension Arsenal previously lacked when Havertz or Gabriel Jesus led the line.
Moreover, his physicality offers a genuine target for crosses and second balls, something Arsenal haven’t consistently had since Olivier Giroud’s departure. That blend of strength, mobility and selfless running makes him a pivotal part of Arteta’s tactical evolution — even if the goals haven’t yet matched expectations.
Analyst Verdict
In my view, Gyökeres is performing an unselfish but vital role. Arsenal’s fluid front line works best when someone is stretching play, and that’s exactly what he provides. Once he adjusts fully to the Premier League’s pace and physicality, the goals will come naturally.
FootballPlace analyst John William adds: “Gyökeres isn’t just a scorer — he’s a system striker. His movement reshapes opposition defences and makes Arsenal more unpredictable. When his finishing catches up, he’ll silence the doubters.”
Key Insights
- Shearer praised Gyökeres’ off-ball runs for improving Arsenal’s attacking structure.
- The Swede has only three goals so far but plays a vital tactical role.
- Arsenal are regaining possession higher up the pitch since his arrival.
- His movement creates more space for Ødegaard, Trossard and Havertz.
- Shearer expects the goals to flow soon given Arsenal’s volume of chances.
What’s Next for Gyökeres and Arsenal
Arsenal face Crystal Palace next weekend before returning to Champions League action. Arteta is unlikely to rotate his front man, believing the consistency of minutes will accelerate Gyökeres’ rhythm.
If the Swedish striker can turn his tireless effort into tangible goals soon, the early-season criticism will quickly fade — and Shearer’s prediction could prove prophetic.
👉 Will Viktor Gyökeres soon turn his hard work into goals and become the striker Arsenal were missing?
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