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Viktor Gyokeres reveals why he chose Arsenal over Man United, and it should leave Ineos concerned

Originally posted on HITC | By Sean Fisher | Last updated Jul 29, 2025 10:22 AM ET

Ruben Amorim missed out on a reunion with Viktor Gyokeres at Manchester United this summer, as the Swedish striker opted for a move to Arsenal instead.

Gyokeres was one of the names near the top of Manchester United’s list heading into the summer window, following an impressive season in Portugal under the Portuguese coach.

But despite that connection, it’s understood that Gyokeres had his sights set elsewhere. The Swede was open to a move to Old Trafford, but his preference was Arsenal, and they went ahead and completed a £64m deal with Sporting Lisbon.

Even in the final stages of the transfer saga, there were reports suggesting United were offered Gyokeres again. But by then, it was clear that a move to Manchester wasn’t his priority.

Viktor Gyokeres explains reasons behind preference for Arsenal

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United’s loss in the Europa League final last season has left them at a disadvantage in summer negotiations, with Amorim unable to offer European football to any new signings.

On the other hand, Arsenal were able to offer Champions League football, while the Red Devils finished 15th in the Premier League last season, which is their worst finish ever.

All of these factors influenced Gyokeres’ decision this summer. As quoted by The Mirror, Gyokeres said: “I just felt that it was the right club for me.

“What I heard from Mikel [Arteta] and Andrea [Berta] when I was speaking with them, and just what I’ve seen in the past years, how they’ve been playing football.

“When I was playing against Arsenal last season, I could really feel it was a very strong team and very difficult to play against. That made me choose Arsenal, and of course all the history the club has and the massive fanbase.”

No matter how highly he thinks of Amorim as a coach, playing for him wasn’t enough to tempt Gyokeres away from his choice. It seems like Ineos weren’t able to sell United’s project in the way Arsenal did.