Gyokeres' goals revive Arsenal hopes as Arteta copes with injuries
When Viktor Gyokeres limped off at Brighton, the Arsenal striker seemed on the brink of obscurity, having scored no goals and started none in the Premier League this season; yet three goals for Sweden – against Romania, Poland and Bosnia‑Herzegovina – could revive Mikel Arteta’s faith when he lands in London next week ahead of the Leeds clash.
International strike spree fuels Gyokeres' confidence
Gyokeres opened his scoring for Sweden in Stockholm against Romania, then sealed a win over Poland and helped secure a point away to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Those three strikes arrive after a barren spell at club level and give the 28‑year‑old a fresh surge of confidence.
His run of goals also broke a record, making him the first player to score in six successive Nations League matches, a streak that stretches back to the 2024‑25 edition. The achievement underscores his growing influence on the international stage.
Arteta forced into changes as injuries mount
Kai Havertz is a major doubt for Arsenal’s next fixture after suffering an injury while representing Germany, and Christos Tzolis went down in Greece’s game on Thursday. The double blow means Mikel Arteta will likely be forced to make two changes to his starting line‑up against Leeds.
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Gyokeres has featured in only five of Arsenal’s seven games this season, largely playing second fiddle to Havertz, who started the campaign strongly by scoring three goals. The striker’s recent form could tip the balance in his favour.
Gyokeres' role and Arsenal's upcoming fixtures
Last season the Swede scored three times in two games against Leeds, including a brace on his home debut, suggesting he thrives against the Yorkshire side. Arsenal resume their Champions League campaign at home to Lille on 13 October before travelling to Nottingham Forest and Bayern Munich over the following eight days.
Earlier transfer rumours linked Gyokeres with a swap for Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez, but the deal never materialised. Speaking earlier this week, the former Sporting Lisbon hitman said he is “extremely happy at the club”, eager for more playing time and confident that his recent form will earn him a place in the Arsenal line‑up.