Viktor Gyokeres needs Sweden reset to revive fading Arsenal role

Viktor Gyokeres has another opportunity to rediscover his confidence with Sweden after a difficult spell at Arsenal left Kai Havertz firmly ahead of him in the striker hierarchy.

The 28-year-old was handed starts against Napoli and Ipswich but failed to make either opportunity count. Arsenal produced 37 shots across those matches, yet Gyokeres managed only one — a tame effort at the goalkeeper.

His lack of involvement has become particularly concerning. Gyokeres registered only three touches inside Napoli’s penalty area and two against Ipswich, highlighting how little influence he is currently having close to goal.

A Carabao Cup meeting with rotated opposition appeared an ideal opportunity for Gyokeres to make his case.

Instead, his performance underlined his current struggles.

Against Ipswich, Gyokeres frequently appeared static when Arsenal attacked wide areas. Rather than anticipating crosses and finding space inside the penalty area, he often became occupied wrestling with defenders.

His link-up play also lacked precision. One misplaced pass towards Noni Madueke prompted visible frustration from several Arsenal teammates.

That contrasts sharply with Havertz, who has consistently found opportunities when leading the attack. Mikel Merino also delivered goals when used as a makeshift striker last season.

Gyokeres therefore needs more than improved service. He must become more active inside the box and rediscover the intensity that previously made him effective.

The upcoming three-week international break could arrive at exactly the right moment.

Sweden face Poland, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Romania twice in the Nations League, giving Gyokeres an opportunity to become the focal point of an attack again.

There is precedent for an international break transforming his Arsenal form.

Gyokeres scored four times across two Sweden matches in March to help secure World Cup qualification. He returned to Arsenal full of confidence, subsequently scoring twice against Fulham before producing an impressive all-round display against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League semi-final.

Sweden manager Graham Potter believes another change of environment could help.

“Sometimes a change of context, a change of environment can help a player,” Potter said. “We know how good Viktor is, we know how important he is.”

With Havertz currently Arteta’s preferred option, Gyokeres needs that reset. A productive international break could determine whether Arsenal once again have a genuine battle for the number nine position.

Gyokeres now heads into an extended international break knowing Sweden could provide the confidence boost he needs.

Goals and stronger performances for his country would give him momentum before returning to Arsenal, where he must prove to Arteta that Havertz should face genuine competition for the starting striker role.