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Arteta Backs Gyokeres After Cup Impact Despite Forest Letdown Reigniting No. 9 Debate

Teammates voice support for the £55–64m signing despite rising calls for a change up front.

Overview

  • The striker scored and assisted in the 3-2 Carabao Cup semi-final first leg at Stamford Bridge, with one outlet noting he is the first Arsenal player since 2004/05 to do both in a domestic cup semi-final.
  • Mikel Arteta praised the display and described Gyokeres as a constant threat, adding he has been very consistent and must maintain that standard.
  • In Saturday’s 0-0 draw at Nottingham Forest, he recorded 10 touches and four completed passes before a 57th‑minute substitution, drawing heavy criticism from sections of the fanbase.
  • William Saliba and Jurrien Timber publicly backed his qualities and work rate, expressing confidence that the goals will follow.
  • Signed for a reported £55–£64m and on eight goals across competitions, he faces scrutiny from pundits and selection pressure from Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, with some pointing to a disrupted pre-season and injury as factors in his adaptation.