By Martin Graham
Viktor Gyokeres appears to be settling into life in north London as Arsenal pursues honors across four tournaments, with recent output suggesting a shift in momentum.
The Sweden international’s contribution has quietly gathered pace, placing him among the Premier League’s most productive attackers since the calendar turned.
While his start after arriving from Sporting was uneven, recent displays indicate growing assurance, echoing the finishing touch that delivered 97 strikes in 102 outings in Portugal.
Across all competitions in 2026, Gyokeres has produced six goals, a total unmatched by any other top-flight player in that period.
Context matters, though. Arsenal have played 11 matches this year due to continued involvement in domestic cups and the Champions League, more than most league rivals.
Even so, confidence is visibly building. His brace against Sunderland took his recent tally to six goals in eight appearances and marked consecutive league matches with goals for the first time this campaign.
The timing suits Arsenal’s ambitions as they seek to end a six-year drought without a major trophy.
How Havertz’s role could unlock more
Gyokeres’ upturn may be linked to Kai Havertz’s reintroduction following a knee problem, with signs of chemistry beginning to surface.
Initially, the two were expected to compete for the central striker role, with Havertz favoured in high-profile fixtures because of his broader contribution and Mikel Arteta’s trust.
Since returning, Havertz has instead featured deeper against Portsmouth, Kairat, Leeds United, and Sunderland.
Injuries to Mikel Merino and Martin Ødegaard, combined with opponents expected to sit back, have pushed Havertz into midfield areas, where his connection with Gyökeres has grown.
Their link-up produced the opener against Kairat and the second goal versus Sunderland, hinting at a developing partnership.
What the data says about influence
A closer look at the numbers adds nuance. Six of Gyokeres’ eight league strikes have arrived against promoted teams.
Those goals still carry weight. Sunderland, in particular, has exceeded expectations this season, and breaking down compact defences remains a challenge Arsenal often faces.
His penalty at Everton ensured maximum points this term, improving on last season’s dropped result at Goodison Park.
Despite that, his Premier League goals have directly secured only two points, and just three of his 13 goals in all competitions altered the match situation after opening the scoring against Burnley, Everton, and Kairat.
Past criticism labelled him a scorer who thrived mainly versus weaker opposition. During Sporting’s 2024-25 league campaign, he averaged 1.18 goals per game but found the net only twice in eight matches against teams finishing second and fifth, while 17 of 39 goals came against the bottom four.
His approach may lack elegance, yet it delivers results. Used as a substitute, he has three goals from six shots in seven appearances, compared with 10 from 55 attempts across 25 starts.
Beyond finishing, his presence creates room for others. Arsenal wins more often and concedes fewer when he begins matches, underlining his work rate and defensive contribution.
Arteta has praised his mentality, highlighting steadiness under pressure and a relentless drive to improve, qualities valued amid high expectations and constant scrutiny.
With plenty of fixtures still ahead, Gyokeres’ renewed scoring touch positions him to play a decisive role as Arsenal’s season reaches its defining phase.