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Arsenal have made a strong start this campaign, winning eight of their opening 10 games, however it hasn't proven quite as easy for new forward Viktor Gyokeres.

After 3 goals during his initial 4 games, this expensive signing hasn't found the net in 6 consecutive games, as head coach the Spanish tactician revealing he gave the Sweden forward an embrace after the weekend's two-nil victory against West Ham for his contributions.

Playing Minutes & Team Factors

The Swedish striker has played 90 minutes in six from Arsenal's opening ten games - more than the manager initially intended him to play, with the fitness issue affecting the German midfielder limiting the capacity the manager possesses to rotate the Swedish international.

Havertz represents one of Arteta's most trusted players and there is a case to be made that the German might have been selected instead of Gyokeres during important away matches versus the Reds - Arsenal's only defeat of the campaign - Newcastle United plus the Red Devils, games that they won.

There is also the fact Gyokeres did not undergo complete summer preparation before joining, and skipped squad training at Sporting when he looked to force through a transfer toward Arsenal.

Goal-Scoring History & Expectations

However Gyokeres represents a win-now signing, that scored ninety-seven goals across 102 appearances for his previous club during his two campaigns at the Lisbon-based team.

His lack of scoring are not a problem since Arsenal are securing victories currently, but he is a player that was signed in to get the team across the finish line while they attempt to secure their initial trophy since 2020.

Manager's Perspective and Team Adaptation

The Arsenal manager has shown an appreciation for the striker's effort during the initial matches and showered praise upon the striker for his contributions which can go under the radar whenever the opportunity has arisen itself.

Following of Arsenal's win against Olympiacos, he described the striker's performance "outstanding" and commended the player's "effort level".

When the club signed the Swedish international, there was an expectation his inclusion would open up opportunities to benefit the multiple attacking talents the team possess behind him in the Norwegian captain, the English winger, Eberechi Eze and the Brazilian forward.

Statistical Breakdown

The North London club have changed their style this campaign to get the ball between the lines more quickly while have adapted their strategy to be more vertical.

This represents in part to get the maximum out of Gyokeres, that does not look to drift into midfield to connect passes like the German, rather whose primary attribute is considered to be running between both centre-backs and into the gaps in behind.

Observing the Gunners this season, it can be seen the central players are attempting for the ball that may release the striker for a chance.

This is demonstrated in the twenty-three chances Gyokeres has received, but he has merely managed seven attempts on goal with those chances across 10 matches, including one being from a spot-kick.

Strategic Adjustments & Team Support

The Gunners had difficulty to penetrate opponents employing defensive setup previous campaign when they faded in the title race, and their new approach aims to hurt the opposition by maintaining tempo.

Arsenal are likewise delivering crosses more regularly with increased frequency to generate more chances.

One of the striker's three goals this season originated from the penalty spot however this occurred at a time Saka had already been replaced in the 5-0 victory over United.

Arteta stated Gyokeres represents the best spot-kick specialist at the club in an interview with ESPN Brazil, but the duty fell to the English international that assumed the spot-kick in the victory over the Hammers when both were present on the pitch, implying the English winger might be first choice to take them this term.

Squad Member Encouragement & Belief

The Arsenal winger, who completed his two hundredth Premier League appearance for Arsenal during the victory this weekend, has expressed confidence in Gyokeres to thrive.

"I think Viktor's performing really, really well," Saka stated post-game with West Ham.

"Without question he will score goals. What he's providing to this team, we as his colleagues, we're so grateful for what he delivers - how he holds the ball, the way he makes the runs, the danger he provides us.

"He's a significant component of the reason we're winning these games. His goals will arrive. We know that, we're confident while we have faith in him. I don't think there's any concerns. He remains positive, he's still content while he's still providing maximum effort every game."

Upcoming Prospects Regarding Gyokeres

It's reasonable to say it hasn't proven the most straightforward of starts for Gyokeres, but this doesn't imply there aren't signs suggesting things will get better.

Gyokeres started the season attempting to recover with his fitness following a disrupted pre-season.

Havertz's fitness issue has meant he has been thrust into circumstances sooner than possibly anticipated - it has also meant the relationships with creative players supporting him which haven't quite clicked have been highlighted.

Gyokeres represents a eager movement maker and consistently seeks out {space|g