Evaluating Viktor Gyokeres' Gunners Beginning: Ten Matches, Three Scores

Arsenal have made a remarkable beginning to the campaign, securing victories in 8 of their first 10 games, but it's been less as straightforward for new striker the Swedish attacker.
After three scores in his first 4 matches, the expensive signing hasn't found the net for six consecutive games, with manager the Spanish tactician revealing he gave the Sweden striker an embrace after the weekend's 2-0 victory against West Ham in recognition of his efforts.
Game Minutes and Squad Dynamics
The Swedish striker has played 90 minutes across six from Arsenal's first 10 games - beyond the manager initially intended for, due to the fitness issue to Kai Havertz limiting the capacity the manager possesses to rest the 27-year-old.
The German player represents one of the manager's key squad members and there is a case to be made suggesting the German might have started instead of the Swedish striker during important road matches against the Reds - the Gunners' only loss this campaign - Newcastle United and Manchester United, which they emerged victorious from.
Additionally, there's the fact Gyokeres did not have a full pre-season before joining, and missed team training with Sporting as he attempted to force through a move toward north London.
Scoring Record & Anticipations
But the Swedish international represents a win-now signing, who scored 97 goals in 102 games for Sporting in his two campaigns with the Portuguese team.
The striker's drought in scoring are not a problem as the team are securing victories at the moment, but he is an athlete that was signed to the club to get the team over the line while they try to secure their initial trophy after 2020.
Coach's Perspective & Team Integration
Arteta has demonstrated an appreciation of Gyokeres' work rate in the opening matches while heaped compliments on the striker regarding his contributions that often goes unnoticed when the opportunity has arisen itself.
Following the Gunners' win against Olympiacos, he called the forward's display "exceptional" while commended the player's "work-rate".
At the time the club acquired Gyokeres, existed a belief his inclusion would create the space for the various offensive talents Arsenal have supporting him including the Norwegian captain, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze and the Brazilian forward.
Statistical Breakdown

The North London club have changed their approach this season to move possession between the lines faster and have adapted their tactics to become more vertical.
This represents in part to get the best out of Gyokeres, that doesn't attempt to drift into midfield and link play like the German, but his primary attribute is considered to be running through both defenders toward the space in behind.
When watching the Gunners this season, one can notice the midfielders are attempting to find the ball that could free the striker for a chance.
This is shown in the twenty-three opportunities the forward has had, however he has merely managed seven attempts on goal with those chances in 10 matches, with one being from a spot-kick.
Strategic Changes & Squad Backing
Arsenal struggled to penetrate opponents in a defensive setup last season as they fell away during the championship pursuit, and their revised style aims to damage the opposition while maintaining tempo.
Arsenal are likewise delivering crosses the ball more regularly to generate more chances.
Among Gyokeres' 3 scores so far originated from the penalty spot but that was when the English winger was already been replaced during the five-nil victory against United.
The manager stated the Swedish striker represents the top penalty taker at the club during a discussion for the sports network, but the duty fell to Saka who assumed the spot-kick during the win against the Hammers while both were on the pitch, suggesting the English winger could be the primary option for penalties this season.
Squad Member Encouragement & Confidence
The Arsenal winger, who completed his 200th English top flight appearance for Arsenal during the victory this weekend, has backed the Swedish striker to succeed.
"In my opinion Viktor's playing really, really well," Saka stated post-game with West Ham.
"Without question he's going to score goals. What he's bringing to this team, we as his team-mates, we're so grateful for what he delivers - how he holds the ball, how he makes movements, the danger he provides us.
"He's a significant component why we're securing victories in these games. His scoring will arrive. We're aware, we're confident and we have faith in him. I don't think there are doubts. He remains up, he continues to be content and he's still giving his best each match."
Upcoming Prospects Regarding The Striker
It's reasonable to state it has not been the easiest beginning for Gyokeres, but this doesn't imply there are not signs to show situations will get better.
Gyokeres started the season playing catch-up regarding his conditioning following a disrupted summer preparation.
The German's injury has resulted in he has been thrust into circumstances sooner than perhaps anticipated - it has also meant the relationships with midfielders behind him that have not fully developed have been highlighted.
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