Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres hasn’t exactly been lighting up the goals since his big money transfer to the Emirates from the Portuguese top flight, but he has definitely been a better scorer than Kai Havertz and played a crucial role as a new anchoring point for the team in Arsenal finally winning the Premier League last season.
But despite Havertz coming off an injury over the international break and Gyokeres scoring in all four of his UEFA Nations League matchups for the Swedish national team, the big No. 9 continues to be snubbed by manager Mikel Arteta.
Arsenal won 2-1 against Leeds United but no thanks to Havertz, who did not score or assist as the starting No. 9. And many Arsenal fans were not happy to see the German international still starting despite the injury and poor form, as well as Gyokeres being ripe for a reward after a great break for Sweden.
After the game, Arteta gave the same tired old refrain of Gyokeres needing to prove himself, “He will participate in the matches and will get minutes. The best way for players to prove themselves is by showing their quality when they enter the pitch. Merino scored two goals with his national team and also deserves to play, but Ødegaard has been exceptional.”
Arsenal fans are still waiting to see Gyokeres get those minutes, and many are pointing out that it is rich for Arteta to say that Gyokeres must prove himself when Havertz seemingly does not have to; he gets to start by default, no matter how poorly he performs in front of goal.
Make us a preferred source on Google and see more of our football coverage.
THE TRIVELA EFFECT
Purveyor of footy since the 90s. Favor the Premier League and old school Serie A with a touch of Bundesliga. More than a touch. Professional writer for 20 years, covering every sport but now focused on the Premier League and world football. You won’t be able to guess my favorite team.