Arteta Stands by His Striker
Mikel Arteta has defended Viktor Gyökeres amid a difficult start to the season. The Arsenal striker is still searching for his first goal in all competitions.
The Swedish forward has struggled for regular minutes. Kai Havertz has been preferred as Arsenal's main striker, leaving Gyökeres yet to start a Premier League match this term.
But his attitude has not been questioned by his manager. Ahead of Sunday's trip to Nottingham Forest, Arteta praised the forward's effort and desire to improve.
“What he transmits is an incredible will and determination and work-rate to improve and help the team,” Arteta said on Friday.
“That's Viktor every single day, regardless of his position, whether he scores a goal or not, and that's why he's always an option to play.”
Fine Margins in Front of Goal
Gyökeres scored 21 goals in his debut season at Arsenal in 2025–26. His failure to find the net this season has drawn attention, but Arteta believes the numbers do not tell the whole story.
The manager said the striker had reached promising positions in recent matches. Yet chances had not always fallen his way.
“We are trying to help him as much as possible. He has some very good moments,” Arteta said.
“He's three or four times in front of goal with no keeper, and the ball should arrive to him, and it doesn't.” For Arteta, the difference between a goal and a missed opportunity can quickly change how a player is judged.
“It's very small margins,” he said. “Scoring or not scoring changes the narrative.”
Arsenal Assess Injury Concerns
Arsenal's preparations for the Forest match have also been shaped by injuries. Midfielder Martin Zubimendi was improving and could be considered for selection after a further training session.
Defender Piero Hincapié was less likely to feature. Arteta said the Ecuadorian was recovering well but might need another week or two.
Both players had suffered ankle injuries during training after Arsenal's win over Leeds United last week.
“Zubi looks much better,” Arteta said, adding that his availability would be assessed after Saturday's session.
Title Race Adds to the Pressure
Arsenal head into the weekend second in the Premier League, three points behind leaders Manchester City. The visit to Nottingham Forest offers another chance to maintain pressure at the top.
For Gyökeres, the match could provide an opportunity to end his wait for a goal. Arteta has made clear that the striker remains in his plans, despite the lack of a breakthrough.
Whether that backing translates into a starting place remains to be seen. For now, the manager is urging patience as his forward works to find his scoring touch.
