The search for Arsenal's undisputed No. 9 has been a saga, and while Viktor Gyokeres delivered Premier League glory, his first season has left some Gunners fans debating if he's truly the long-term answer.
Key Points:
- Arsenal invested heavily in Gyokeres, with a deal potentially exceeding £66 million.
- He scored 21 goals in his debut season, helping Arsenal win the Premier League.
- Former Gunner Stefan Schwarz backs Gyokeres to excel in his second campaign.
- The striker's physical presence is highlighted as a key asset, despite not being a "classy dribbler."
Unpacking Arsenal's Striker Conundrum: The Gyokeres Investment
Arsenal finally broke their Premier League title drought in 2025-26, a monumental achievement fueled in part by Viktor Gyokeres. The Swedish forward arrived in north London in the summer of 2025 from Sporting, commanding a transfer package that could ultimately hit over £66 million ($88m). This significant outlay signaled Mikel Arteta's belief in his ability to lead the line.
Gyokeres was a hot commodity after an incredible run of 97 goals in 102 appearances for the Portuguese giants. His prior stints in English football with Brighton, Swansea, and Coventry hinted at his potential, which he explosively realized in Portugal.
First Season Review: Goals, Trophies, and Lingering Doubts
His debut season saw Gyokeres bag 21 goals across all competitions, a respectable return that certainly contributed to Arsenal's domestic dominance. The Gunners celebrated their first Premier League title in 22 years and even reached the Champions League final, though they ultimately fell to back-to-back winners Paris Saint-Germain.
Despite the silverware and his goal tally, some sections of the support remain unconvinced. The question persists: is Gyokeres the true heir to legendary Arsenal strikers like Ian Wright and Thierry Henry?
Schwarz's Verdict: Why Gyokeres is Arsenal's Long-Term Solution
Enter Stefan Schwarz, a former Sweden international and one-time Arsenal player, who offers a robust defense of his compatriot. Speaking in association with Betinia, Schwarz firmly believes that the 28-year-old can indeed become Arsenal's long-term No. 9, even with potential competition looming.
Schwarz dismisses comparisons to "classy attackers" known for intricate dribbling. He instead likens Gyokeres to a player like Brian Brobbey, emphasizing his unique attributes.
The Physicality Factor: A Different Kind of Striker
"He's not, if you say, a classy attacker with the best dribbles," Schwarz explained. "But you need different players to have a successful season." He highlights Gyokeres's "very strong physical presence," his desire to "compete," and his relentless effort to "push around in the channels." This makes him a nightmare for defenders, creating space and opportunities for others.
Second Season Surge? Pre-Season Advantage Looms
Schwarz also points to external factors impacting Gyokeres's initial adjustment. "He didn't have a pre-season last year. He came in very late... he had a slight injury in the beginning." These factors undoubtedly hampered his early form.
The former Gunner is optimistic for the upcoming campaign. "I think this second season we will see the best out of him," Schwarz confidently stated. With a full pre-season ahead, Gyokeres is poised to hit the ground running.
Future Firepower: Alvarez Links and Arsenal's Ambition
The club's ambition means they are never truly out of the market for elite talent. Reports suggest Arsenal continues to eye additional firepower, with Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez frequently linked. The World Cup-winning former Manchester City star is also reportedly a target for La Liga champions Barcelona, potentially easing Gyokeres's pressure.
With Sweden's recent exit from the 2026 World Cup after a Last-32 defeat to Kylian Mbappé's France, Gyokeres will now have a full, uninterrupted summer to prepare. This crucial pre-season will allow him to integrate fully and build fitness, aiming for a strong start against Manchester City in the Community Shield on August 16 and the Premier League opener at home against newly-promoted Coventry.
