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Arteta Stresses Competition as Arsenal Seek Answers for Gyokeres’ Slow Start

Arteta frames the scrutiny as the job of an Arsenal No. 9, pointing to competition as the path to improvement.

Overview

  • Arteta told Sky Sports the scrutiny "is not going away" and said the only missing piece is "scoring more goals," calling the depth up front a deliberate plan.
  • Gyokeres has five Premier League goals and seven in all competitions at mid-season after a £63–64m summer move from Sporting.
  • Analysts argue Arsenal’s deliberate build-up and compact low blocks limit the space he attacked in Portugal, with last season’s haul also boosted by penalties.
  • Suggested adjustments include pairing him with Kai Havertz as a back-to-goal foil and maximizing Leandro Trossard’s quick deliveries that have fashioned chances.
  • Selection pressure is rising as Gabriel Jesus returns to scoring and pundits back him to start, even as teammates praise Gyokeres’ pressing, hold-up play and space-creating runs.