Viktor Gyokeres will need to raise his game significantly if he wants to keep his Arsenal starting spot now that Gabriel Jesus is back from injury.
The Swedish striker joined Arsenal with high expectations after his impressive performances in Portugal. However, his recent displays have left questions about whether he can maintain his position in Mikel Arteta’s attack.
Gabriel Jesus returned to training this week after recovering from a knee problem that kept him out for several weeks. The Brazilian forward scored 11 goals before his setback and remains a favorite of the Arsenal manager.
Gyokeres struggles for form
Gyokeres has managed just three goals in his last eight appearances for the Gunners. His movement off the ball has been criticized by fans and pundits alike, with many pointing out his lack of connection with midfield players.
The 26-year-old showed promise in his first month at the Emirates Stadium. He scored twice against Nottingham Forest and looked sharp in front of goal. But those performances now feel like distant memories as his confidence appears to have dropped.
Arsenal paid £65 million to bring Gyokeres to North London last summer. That fee means the club will be patient with their investment, but patience has limits when results matter.
Jesus ready to reclaim starting role
Gabriel Jesus has shown his quality during his time at Arsenal. The former Manchester City attacker brings energy, pressing, and goal threat that suits Arteta’s system perfectly.
His return creates direct competition for Gyokeres in the central striking position. Jesus has already participated in full training sessions and could feature in Arsenal’s next match against West Ham United this weekend.
I spoke with several Arsenal sources who confirmed that Jesus looks sharp and hungry to regain his place. The Brazilian has maintained his fitness during rehabilitation and appears ready for immediate action.
What Gyokeres must do
The Swedish international needs to improve several aspects of his game quickly. His hold-up play requires work, as does his ability to bring wingers into dangerous positions.
Gyokeres must also convert more of the chances created for him by Arsenal’s talented midfielders. Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice have provided quality service, but the striker has failed to capitalize consistently.
His defensive work rate needs attention too. Arteta demands forwards who press aggressively and track back when possession is lost. Gyokeres has shown reluctance in this area during recent matches.
Arteta faces selection dilemma
The Arsenal boss will need to make a tough call in the coming weeks. Dropping a £65 million signing sends a strong message, but keeping an underperforming player in the team damages results.
Gyokeres still has time to prove himself worthy of the Arsenal shirt. However, that window is closing fast with Jesus breathing down his neck for minutes.
Arsenal sit second in the Premier League table and cannot afford passengers in their quest for the title. Every player must deliver consistent performances or risk being replaced.
The next month will determine Gyokeres’ future at Arsenal. He either steps up his production or watches from the bench as Jesus leads the line.
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