Viktor Gyökeres, Arsenal’s high-profile £64 million signing from Sporting CP, made his first start in an Arsenal shirt during the pre-season friendly against Villarreal at the Emirates Stadium.

Despite the 3-2 defeat, with Arsenal conceding early and defending poorly in open spaces, Arteta praised the Swedish striker’s performance and progress.

Gyökeres lasted 62 minutes before being substituted, and although he did not find the net, his attacking movements and intent impressed the manager.

“We already broke that line today because I think it was very important for him to start a match and start to have the feeling and the connection with the team,” Arteta said.

Having trained with Arsenal for just about a week after almost two months away from competitive football, Gyökeres showed promising signs of adapting quickly.

Arteta’s Confidence Ahead of Premier League Kick-Off

Arteta acknowledged the challenges the team faced defending Villarreal’s counter-attacks but stressed that Gyökeres’s individual effort stood out positively.

“His eagerness and confidence in his ability to contribute immediately leave me with no doubt that he will be in an excellent position,” the coach noted.

With another friendly against Athletic Bilbao lined up, Arteta expects Gyökeres to improve further and be fully ready for Arsenal’s Premier League opener against Manchester United on August 17. 

Despite the team’s defensive naivety that cost them the game, Arteta's endorsement reflects a belief in Gyökeres being a pivotal figure in Arsenal’s attack this season.

The manager also highlighted how Gyökeres’s understanding of spaces and ability to connect with teammates is developing, which bodes well for his integration into the squad. 

Room for Growth Amid High Expectations

Gyökeres arrives at Arsenal with high expectations due to his significant transfer fee and Sporting CP goal-scoring record. Fans and pundits observed a mixed debut; some noted moments of promise, particularly his movement off the ball and willingness to press, but also areas needing refinement such as sharper finishing and better link-up play. 

The Swedish forward’s first competitive season in the Premier League will be closely watched as he adjusts to the physicality and pace of English football.

Arteta’s support lays a foundation of confidence for Gyökeres to build on during pre-season and beyond, with the club hopeful he will become a key player in Arsenal’s quest to challenge for trophies in 2025-26. 

Arsenal’s latest signing Viktor Gyökeres may have had a frustrating first outing against Villarreal, but Mikel Arteta’s backing underscores the belief that the striker’s best is yet to come at the Emirates.