Evaluating Viktor Gyokeres' Arsenal Start: Ten Matches, 3 Scores

Arsenal are experiencing a remarkable beginning this season, winning eight of their first 10 matches, however it's been less quite as easy for recent forward Viktor Gyokeres.
Following 3 scores in his initial 4 games, the £64m acquisition has not found the net for six consecutive games, as head coach the Spanish tactician stating he offered the Sweden striker a hug following Saturday's two-nil win over the Hammers in recognition of his contributions.
Playing Minutes and Team Dynamics
The Swedish striker has featured for full matches in six of Arsenal's first ten games - more than Arteta planned for, due to the knee injury affecting Kai Havertz limiting the ability the manager possesses to rotate the 27-year-old.
The German player represents one of Arteta's most trusted players and there is a case to be had that Havertz might have been selected in place of Gyokeres during important road matches against the Reds - Arsenal's sole defeat of the season - Newcastle United plus the Red Devils, games that they emerged victorious from.
There is also the fact the striker did not have a full pre-season before joining, while missed squad training with his former club as he looked to force through a transfer to Arsenal.
Goal-Scoring History & Expectations
However Gyokeres represents a immediate impact signing, who scored ninety-seven times in one hundred two games with Sporting in two campaigns at the Lisbon-based team.
His lack of scoring are not a problem since the team are winning at the moment, yet he represents an athlete that was brought to the club to help the squad across the finish line while they try to secure their initial title since 2020.
Manager's Viewpoint and Team Integration
Arteta has demonstrated an appreciation of Gyokeres' work rate during the opening matches and showered praise on the forward for his work which can go unnoticed when the opportunity has presented itself.
Following of Arsenal's victory against the Greek side, he described the forward's performance "exceptional" while praised his "effort level".
At the time the club signed the Swedish international, existed a belief his inclusion would create opportunities for the multiple attacking players Arsenal have behind him in the Norwegian captain, the English winger, the creative midfielder and Gabriel Martinelli.
Numerical Analysis

Arsenal have altered their approach this campaign to get the ball between the lines faster and have adapted their strategy to become more direct.
This represents partially to get the maximum out of the Swedish striker, that doesn't attempt to drop deeper and connect passes like Havertz, rather his primary attribute is considered to be making runs between the two centre-backs and into the space in behind.
When watching Arsenal currently, it can be seen the central players are looking to find passes that may free the striker for a chance.
This is demonstrated by the 23 chances Gyokeres has had, but he has only mustered 7 shots on target with those opportunities in ten matches, with one coming via a spot-kick.
Strategic Adjustments & Squad Backing
The Gunners struggled to penetrate sides employing low block last season as they fell away during the championship pursuit, so their new approach is designed to damage opponents by maintaining tempo.
Arsenal are likewise delivering crosses the ball with increased frequency to generate more chances.
Among Gyokeres' 3 goals this season came from the penalty spot however that was at a time the English winger was already been replaced during the 5-0 victory over Leeds.
The manager stated the Swedish striker represents the top spot-kick specialist in the squad during a discussion for ESPN Brazil, but the duty fell to Saka that assumed the penalty during the win over West Ham while both were present on the pitch, implying the England attacker could be first choice for penalties this term.
Squad Member Support & Belief
The Arsenal winger, that completed his two hundredth Premier League appearance with the Gunners in the victory on Saturday, has backed the Swedish striker to succeed.
"I think Gyokeres' performing really, really impressively," Saka said post-game against the Hammers.
"Without question he's going to score goals. The contributions he's providing to the squad, us as his team-mates, we're so appreciative of what he delivers - the manner he retains possession, how he makes the runs, the threat he gives the team.
"He represents a significant component why we're securing victories in these games. His scoring will come. We're aware, we're confident and we believe in him. I don't believe there are doubts. He remains positive, he continues to be content and he's consistently providing his best each match."
Future Outlook for Gyokeres
It's reasonable to state it has not been the easiest of starts for Gyokeres, however this doesn't imply there aren't signs to show things will get better.
Gyokeres began the season attempting catch-up with his fitness following an interrupted summer preparation.
Havertz's injury has meant he has been thrust into circumstances sooner than possibly anticipated - it has also meant the relationships with midfielders supporting him which haven't quite clicked have been highlighted.
Gyokeres is a eager runner while consistently looks for {space|g