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Arsenal have made a strong beginning to the campaign, securing victories in 8 of their opening 10 games, however it has not been as straightforward for recent forward the Swedish attacker.

Following 3 scores during his initial 4 matches, this expensive acquisition hasn't found the net for six matches, with manager Mikel Arteta stating he gave the Swedish striker a hug following the weekend's 2-0 victory over West Ham in recognition of his hard work.

Game Time & Team Factors

The Swedish striker has played full matches across six from Arsenal's opening ten games - more than the manager planned for, with the knee injury affecting Kai Havertz restricting the ability Arteta has to rest the 27-year-old.

Havertz is one of the manager's most trusted players and there is a case to be made that the German would have started instead of the Swedish striker during big away matches versus the Reds - Arsenal's sole loss of the campaign - Newcastle United and the Red Devils, which they won.

There is also the reality the striker did not undergo complete pre-season before joining, and missed squad training at his former club as he looked to secure a transfer to Arsenal.

Scoring History and Anticipations

However Gyokeres is a win-now addition, that notched ninety-seven goals in one hundred two appearances with his previous club in two campaigns at the Portuguese team.

The striker's drought in scoring aren't a problem as Arsenal are securing victories currently, yet he is a player that was brought in to get the team over the line as they attempt to secure their initial trophy since 2020.

Coach's Perspective & Team Adaptation

The Arsenal manager has shown recognition of Gyokeres' effort in the initial matches and showered praise on the forward regarding his contributions which often goes unnoticed whenever the opportunity has presented to do so.

Following the Gunners' win over the Greek side, he described the forward's performance "outstanding" while praised the player's "work-rate".

At the time the club acquired Gyokeres, existed an expectation his presence would create the space for the various attacking players Arsenal possess supporting him in Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze and Gabriel Martinelli.

Numerical Analysis

The North London club have changed their approach this campaign to move the ball between the lines faster while have adapted their strategy to be more vertical.

This represents partially to get the maximum out of the Swedish striker, who doesn't attempt to drop into midfield and link play similar to Havertz, but whose strength is considered as running through both centre-backs toward the gaps behind them.

When watching Arsenal this season, it can be seen the midfielders are looking for the ball that could free the striker for opportunities.

This is shown by the twenty-three opportunities the forward has had, however he has merely managed seven attempts on goal from those chances across 10 games, including one coming via the penalty spot.

Strategic Adjustments & Squad Backing

Arsenal had difficulty to break down sides in a low block last season when they faded in the championship pursuit, so their new approach is designed to damage opponents while playing quickly.

The team are likewise delivering crosses the ball with increased frequency to create additional opportunities.

Among the striker's three goals this season came from a spot-kick but this occurred at a time the English winger was already been replaced during the five-nil win over Leeds.

The manager said the Swedish striker is the best penalty taker in the squad during a discussion with ESPN Brazil, but it was Saka that assumed the spot-kick during the victory against the Hammers while both were on the field, implying the English attacker could be the primary option to take them this term.

Squad Member Encouragement & Belief

The Arsenal winger, who made his 200th Premier League appearance for Arsenal during the victory on Saturday, has backed Gyokeres to thrive.

"I think Viktor's playing really, really well," Saka stated after the match against the Hammers.

"Without question he's going to score goals. The contributions he's bringing to this team, us as his team-mates, we're so grateful for what he delivers - how he retains possession, how he makes movements, the threat he gives us.

"He's a big part why we're winning these matches. His scoring will come. We're aware, we're confident and we have faith in him. I don't believe there are doubts. He remains up, he's still happy and he's still giving maximum effort each match."

Future Outlook for The Striker

It is fair to say it has not been the most straightforward beginning for Gyokeres, however that does not mean there are not signs to show situations will become improved.

The striker started the season attempting catch-up with his fitness following a disrupted pre-season.

Havertz's injury has resulted in him being thrust into situations sooner than perhaps planned - this has also caused the connections with midfielders supporting him which haven't quite clicked are being emphasized.

The striker is a eager movement maker while constantly looks for {space|g