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Spanish outlets give blunt verdict on Viktor Gyokeres after Arsenal win over Athletic Club
Photo by Apinya Rittipo/Getty Images

Viktor Gyokeres played 65 minutes as a starter for Arsenal in their Champions League victory over Athletic Club.

The Gunners had already faced Ernesto Valverde’s team in a preseason friendly, where they picked up a straightforward win. It was during that match that the Swede scored his first goal for the club.

This time, though, things were far from easy. The Sweden international failed to find the net against Athletic and was substituted for Leandro Trossard, who went on to score Arsenal’s second goal.

Spanish media weigh in on Viktor Gyokeres’ showing in Athletic Club vs Arsenal


Photo by Juanma – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images

Viktor Gyokeres is settling in at Arsenal and his start to life at the club has been quite interesting.

The ex-Sporting CP man has found the net three times in two appearances at the Emirates, but he is still searching for his first goal away from home.

Playing at San Mames, Gyokeres had a few chances to get on the scoresheet but could not convert any of them.

The Swede also picked up a cut on the back of his head after a collision with Gabriel Magalhaes inside the penalty area.

According to Sport in Spain, Gyokeres had looked lively before that injury.

They wrote: “The Swede was one of Athletic’s biggest pains – along with Madueke – in the first half, but a collision with Gabriel left him with a considerable gash on the back of his neck and ended his performance.”

Meanwhile, AS described Gyokeres’ display as ‘lacklustre’ and praised Trossard for making an impact after coming off the bench:

“Trossard changed everything. The Belgian has been the differentiating factor in Arsenal’s attack,” they wrote.

“He burst onto the scene spectacularly, replacing a lacklustre Gyokeres. Playing as a false nine, his mobility has ultimately caused Athletic’s defence to struggle.”

Mikel Arteta offers update on Viktor Gyokeres injury following Arsenal win over Athletic Club

Gyokeres suffered a cut to the back of his head during a clash inside the box. The medical team wrapped it up quickly, but it was clear he was not fully comfortable afterwards.

Arteta’s decision to substitute the Swedish striker for Trossard in the 65th minute sparked debate among many fans on social media.

But the Belgian came on and immediately made an impact for Arsenal, setting up one goal and scoring another as they took control late on.

Arteta explained after full-time that both Gyokeres and Mikel Merino were okay despite picking up knocks during the match.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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