Arteta Confident Viktor Gyökeres Will Be Fully Ready for Premier League Opener
After making his first start in Arsenal's 3-2 defeat to Villarreal, manager Mikel Arteta insists striker Viktor Gyökeres will be '100%' fit for the new season opener at Manchester United.
Arsenal fans greeted the club's £64m summer signing, Viktor Gyökeres, with rapturous applause when his name appeared on the team sheet for the pre-season friendly against Villarreal at Emirates Stadium.
The Swedish forward, who has not played competitively since leaving Sporting Lisbon two months ago, looked sharp during his 60 minutes on the pitch despite Arsenal losing 3-2. Christian Nørgaard and captain Martin Ødegaard scored for the Gunners.
Crucially, the game offered Gyökeres his first taste of action in Arsenal colours ahead of the Premier League opener at Manchester United on August 17.
“Mentally and tactically, he needed this start,” manager Mikel Arteta said. “He will be 100% ready or more. His confidence is high, and he understands what the team requires.”
Arteta noted Gyökeres has had just five training sessions but is already forging strong connections with his teammates. “Every session improves his timing and understanding. By Saturday’s friendly against Athletic Bilbao, he will be in even better shape,” the Spaniard added.
Building fitness and connections
Arsenal have adjusted their build-up play to deliver more crosses and first-time balls, playing to Gyökeres’ strengths. The striker came close to scoring in both halves, narrowly missing a header and later thwarted by a fine save.
“He is adapting quickly,” Arteta said. “His positioning and movement in the box are impressive for someone who has only trained with us briefly.”
Gyökeres’ first start showed promising glimpses of his ability to link up with the Arsenal attack, and Arteta is certain he will hit peak condition in time for the Premier League opener.
This topic was reported by BBC Sport.
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