Viktor Gyökeres Responds to Rumors About His Arsenal Future

The Sweden striker opened up on his reduced role, the competition for places and what he expects from the coming months in north London.

Gyökeres Speaks Out on His Arsenal Situation

Viktor Gyökeres has endured a difficult start to the season at Arsenal. The Sweden striker has slipped down the pecking order under Mikel Arteta, making just two Premier League appearances off the bench so far.

Kai Havertz has established himself as the Gunners' preferred option up front, leaving Gyökeres fighting to regain the role he expected after arriving from Sporting.

That situation has fueled speculation over a possible departure, but the forward used his time away with Sweden to make his position clear: leaving Arsenal was never really part of his plans.

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“For Me, Staying Was a Given”

Gyökeres acknowledged there was plenty of speculation during the transfer window, but insisted he was always focused on remaining in north London.

“Of course, there was a lot of speculation, but I had a full pre-season and it felt good. I was fully focused on Arsenal. For me, staying was a given. I’m extremely happy at the club,” he said.

His commitment to the Gunners does not mean he is satisfied with his current role, though. The Sweden international was equally clear about what he wants next: “It’s clear that I want to play football as much as possible. As a footballer, you always want to be on the pitch.”

Havertz Competition Will Not Make Him Back Down

The striker admits he expected to play more, but also recognizes the depth of a squad where competition for places is intense.

“Of course, you expect more playing time, but we have an extremely good squad with a lot of very good players and we’ve started well,” he explained.

Gyökeres also revealed that he has maintained a positive dialogue with Arteta and accepts that he needs to raise his level to change the situation. “I obviously need to do better and I’m willing to do it. I just try to perform when I get the chance and score goals.”

Sweden Could Give Him the Boost He Needs

The international break offers Gyökeres an important chance to rebuild confidence. The striker has rediscovered his scoring touch with Sweden, adding to his international tally with goals against Romania and Poland.

The bigger challenge will be carrying that momentum back to Arsenal, where he is still searching for his first club goal of the season and a chance to regain ground in the battle for a starting place.

His next opportunity could come when the Gunners host Leeds United on October 10 at the Emirates Stadium. For now, Gyökeres has dismissed the idea of leaving: his priority is to stay and win his place back.

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What Gyökeres’ Message Tells Us

Viktor Gyökeres said he never seriously considered leaving Arsenal during the most recent transfer window.
The striker admits he wants far more playing time, but accepts the level of competition within the squad.
His immediate goal is to regain a bigger role and start scoring again for the Gunners.