Struggling Arsenal star shines for his country

(Photo by Michael Campanella/Getty Images)

Struggling Arsenal star shines for his country

Originally posted on Just Arsenal | Last updated Sep 26, 2026 2:00 PM ET

Viktor Gyokeres has struggled to get regular game time at Arsenal this season because of Kai Havertz’s form, with the German currently preferred as the starting striker.

This is not the position Gyokeres expected to find himself in after his first season as Arsenal’s main striker, particularly because Havertz had suffered injury problems. The Swedish forward had hoped his second season would be much better than the first, but he has not been given enough opportunities to demonstrate what he can offer.

Gyokeres makes his mark for Sweden

Despite his limited opportunities at Arsenal, Sweden called Gyokeres up for this international window, and he started their Nations League match against Romania last night.

Sweden are fortunate to have two quality strikers, with Gyokeres and Alexander Isak both starting the match. The pair were therefore on the pitch together, giving Gyokeres another opportunity to demonstrate his quality in front of goal.

According to BBC Sport, Gyokeres scored Sweden’s second goal just before half-time, putting his team in a strong position during the match.

Arsenal opportunity could emerge

Gyokeres’ goal ultimately proved decisive as Sweden secured a 2-1 victory over their visitors. The result gave the striker and his teammates a positive start to the international break.

The Arsenal forward will hope to score again in Sweden’s remaining matches before the international window ends. More goals would provide him with further confidence after a difficult start to the campaign at club level.

However, developments at Arsenal could now give Gyokeres an opportunity to change his situation. Havertz has suffered an injury while on international duty, potentially creating an opening for the Swedish striker when club football resumes.

If Havertz is unavailable for an extended period, Gyokeres could finally receive the consistent run of starts he has been waiting for. He will need to take that opportunity if it arrives and demonstrate that he can lead the Arsenal attack.

For now, his focus remains on Sweden, but his goal against Romania could prove an important moment as he looks to build momentum and earn more opportunities for Arsenal.

This article first appeared on Just Arsenal and was syndicated with permission.

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