Arteta directly points out what Gyokeres is missing at Arsenal

Coach Arteta confirms that the only thing Gyokeres is missing is scoring goals, with Havertz’s comeback intensifying Arsenal’s offensive options before facing Bournemouth in the Premier League.

Manager Mikel Arteta states that the sole thing Viktor Gyokeres is currently missing at Arsenal is goals, as Kai Havertz has recovered from injury and is ready to rejoin the attacking competition.

This weekend, Arsenal will visit Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium aiming to maintain their Premier League top spot and a 4-point lead over Manchester City. Against a lower-ranked opponent, capitalizing on chances in the final third is crucial, especially given the worrying goal-scoring form of Arsenal’s forwards.

Gyokeres, a high-value signing costing nearly £65 million from Sporting Lisbon, was expected to become Arsenal’s main striker. However, the Swedish forward has only scored 7 goals in 22 appearances across all competitions, a tally that falls short of expectations for the number 9 role at the Emirates. Notably, he has not scored from open play in his last 7 Premier League matches.

Nevertheless, Arteta clearly defends his player. Speaking to Sky Sports, the Spanish coach emphasized that Gyokeres is fulfilling all tactical demands, from pressing and off-ball movement to contributing to the team’s overall play. “The only thing missing right now is goals. Wearing the number 9 shirt at Arsenal always carries great pressure, and he has been fully aware of that from the start,” Arteta said.

Kai Havertz’s return after 4 months out injured has made Arsenal’s attacking competition more interesting. Although not yet at full fitness to start against the physically demanding Bournemouth, Havertz can still make a difference if brought on in the second half. When in form, the German forward demonstrates strong ball retention, link-up play, and effective hold-up ability.

With Arsenal leading the league table, the question arises whether they need to add another striker during the January transfer window. However, rather than rushing to buy, Arteta is likely to prioritize maximizing existing resources and wait for Gyokeres to “unlock” his potential during this critical phase of the season.