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Arsenal have enjoyed an impressive beginning this campaign, winning 8 of their opening 10 matches, however it hasn't proven quite as straightforward for new forward Viktor Gyokeres.

Following 3 goals in his initial 4 games, this £64m acquisition has not scored in six consecutive games, as head coach Mikel Arteta saying he offered the Swedish forward an embrace after Saturday's 2-0 victory over West Ham in recognition of his contributions.

Game Time & Squad Factors

The Swedish striker has played 90 minutes across six from Arsenal's opening 10 matches - more than Arteta planned him to play, due to the fitness issue affecting Kai Havertz restricting the ability the manager possesses to rotate the 27-year-old.

Havertz represents one of the manager's most reliable squad members while there is a case to be made that the German might have started in place of Gyokeres in big road fixtures against the Reds - the Gunners' only defeat this campaign - Newcastle United and the Red Devils, games that they emerged victorious from.

There is also the reality the striker did not have complete pre-season prior to arriving, while skipped squad sessions with his former club as he attempted to secure a move to Arsenal.

Goal-Scoring Record & Expectations

However the Swedish international represents a immediate impact signing, that notched 97 times in 102 appearances for his previous club during his two campaigns with the Lisbon-based team.

The striker's drought in goals aren't a problem since Arsenal are winning at the moment, but he is a player that was brought to the club to get the squad over the line as they attempt to win their first trophy since two thousand twenty.

Manager's Perspective and Team Adaptation

The Arsenal manager has shown recognition for Gyokeres' work rate during the initial games and showered compliments on the striker regarding his contributions that can go under the radar when the chance has presented itself.

Following the Gunners' win over the Greek side, he described the forward's display "exceptional" while commended his "effort level".

When the club signed Gyokeres, there was an expectation his presence would create the space to benefit the various offensive players Arsenal have behind him in Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, the creative midfielder and Gabriel Martinelli.

Statistical Breakdown

The North London club have changed their style this campaign to move possession through midfield faster and have adapted their strategy to be more vertical.

This represents partially to extract the maximum out of Gyokeres, that does not look to drift into midfield to connect passes like the German, rather his strength is felt as running through the two centre-backs toward the gaps in behind.

When watching Arsenal currently, it can be seen the midfielders are attempting for passes that may release Gyokeres for opportunities.

This is demonstrated in the 23 chances the forward has had, however he has only managed 7 attempts on goal from those opportunities across 10 matches, with one being from the penalty spot.

Tactical Adjustments & Squad Support

The Gunners had difficulty to break down opponents in a low block previous campaign when they fell away during the championship pursuit, so their revised style aims to hurt the opposition by maintaining tempo.

The team are likewise delivering crosses more regularly with increased frequency to generate additional opportunities.

Among Gyokeres' 3 scores so far came from the penalty spot however that was at a time the English winger was already been replaced during the five-nil victory over United.

Arteta stated the Swedish striker represents the top spot-kick specialist at the club in an interview for ESPN Brazil, but the duty fell to Saka who took the penalty in the victory over West Ham when both were on the pitch, implying the English attacker could be first choice for penalties this term.

Teammate Encouragement and Confidence

The Arsenal winger, that completed his 200th Premier League appearance for Arsenal during the victory this weekend, has expressed confidence in the Swedish striker to thrive.

"In my opinion Gyokeres' playing really, really well," the Englishman said after the match against West Ham.

"Without question he's going to score goals. What he's bringing to the squad, us as his team-mates, we are extremely grateful of what he delivers - how he holds the ball, the way he makes the runs, the threat he provides the team.

"He represents a big part why we're winning these matches. His goals will arrive. We're aware, we're confident while we have faith in him. I don't believe there's any concerns. He remains positive, he continues to be happy while he's still providing his best each match."

Future Outlook for The Striker

It is fair to say it has not been the easiest of starts for Gyokeres, however that does not mean there are not signs suggesting things will get better.

Gyokeres began the season attempting to recover with his fitness following an interrupted pre-season.

Havertz's fitness issue has resulted in he has been thrust into circumstances sooner than possibly anticipated - it has also meant the relationships with creative players behind him which haven't fully developed are being highlighted.

Gyokeres represents a willing movement maker and constantly looks for {space|g