Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Viktor Gyökeres was withdrawn at half-time of Arsenal’s 2–0 win over Burnley after feeling a muscular problem, raising fresh injury concerns for the Premier League leaders.
The Swedish striker, who has faced scrutiny for a slow start to life at the Emirates, produced arguably his best 45 minutes in an Arsenal shirt before being substituted at the break.
Gyökeres Scores, Then Subbed at Half-Time
Gyökeres opened the scoring from close range after a well-worked set-piece routine, showing sharp movement and composure to guide home his fourth league goal of the season.
Beyond the goal, he impressed with his hold-up play and link-up movement, registering 17 touches, three key passes, and two big chances created before coming off.
His substitution at the interval, however, immediately sparked speculation of another injury blow for Arsenal, who are already short on forwards.
Arteta Explains the Decision
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Arteta praised Gyökeres’ display but admitted the change was precautionary after the striker felt discomfort.
“In the first half it was one of the best he’s played with us,” Arteta said. “He felt something muscular, so we have to wait to learn the extent of that.” — Mikel Arteta, post-match press conference
The manager did not specify which area was affected, but the decision to take Gyökeres off at half-time suggests Arsenal’s medical staff were unwilling to risk aggravating the issue.
Arsenal’s Attacking Crisis Deepens
Arsenal’s attacking options are thinning fast. Both Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus remain sidelined with existing injuries, meaning Gyökeres’ potential absence would leave Arteta without a recognised striker ahead of a crucial Champions League tie against Slavia Prague.
After that, Arsenal face Sunderland in their final league fixture before the international break — matches that could further test the squad’s depth.
Should the Swedish forward miss out, Arteta may be forced to deploy Leandro Trossard or Bukayo Saka as a false nine.
Gyökeres Shows Signs of Progress
The biggest frustration for Arteta — and the Arsenal fans — will be that the injury scare came just as Gyökeres appeared to be finding rhythm.
After a mixed start following his summer move from Sporting CP, the 27-year-old looked confident, combining well with Eberechi Eze and Martin Ødegaard to create several dangerous moments in the first half.
If fit, Gyökeres looks set to become a more integral part of Arsenal’s attack moving forward.
Our View: A Worrying but Manageable Setback
In our view, this is a worrying development but not necessarily disastrous if the issue proves minor. Arteta was cautious rather than alarmed, suggesting it could be tightness rather than a tear.
Still, Arsenal’s upcoming schedule — and their lack of forward depth — means any absence, even short-term, will be felt sharply.
“Gyökeres finally looked like the player Arsenal thought they were signing — aggressive, sharp, and creative. His injury comes at a cruel time, but if he avoids a major setback, this could mark the start of a genuine upturn in form.”
Key Insights
- Mikel Arteta confirms Viktor Gyökeres felt a muscular issue vs Burnley.
- The striker scored and impressed before being withdrawn at half-time.
- Arsenal could now be without Gyökeres, Havertz, and Jesus in attack.
- Gyökeres created two big chances and made three key passes in 45 minutes.
- Arsenal face Slavia Prague next in the Champions League.
What’s Next
Arsenal will assess Gyökeres’ fitness ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League trip to Prague. A final decision on his availability is expected within 48 hours.
👉 Arsenal fans — how worried are you about Gyökeres’ injury, just as he was hitting form?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 1 Nov 2025 17:37
Even if they play without a striker there's no club thats going to score against that wall of them..
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