Gyokeres vows more minutes as Mikel Arteta favours Havertz

Under the floodlights of the Nations League match in Bucharest on Friday, Viktor Gyokeres celebrated a rare strike for Sweden, a moment that underlines his determination to win back a regular place at Arsenal after a season spent largely on the bench.

Last season's promise and current frustration

Signed last summer for £64 million, Gyokeres dazzled in his debut English season, netting 21 goals. Yet he often found himself on the bench for Kai Havertz when the stakes were highest, including the Champions League final against Paris Saint‑Germain the Saint side. The Swedish striker has repeatedly argued that his record merits a regular starting berth.

Havertz has started all five of Arsenal’s Premier League games this term, while Gyokeres has been limited to just 29 minutes of top‑flight action off the bench. He has nevertheless featured in the Champions League and Carabao Cup, but his minutes remain scarce. The contrast has left the 28‑year‑old eager for more involvement.

Transfer rumours and future ambitions

During the summer, Gyokeres was linked with a move away from north London, with Atletico Madrid reportedly offered as part of Arsenal’s pursuit of Julian Alvarez. The speculation has not materialised, and the striker remains committed to earning his place. He stresses that the club’s ambition to sign new talent does not diminish his desire to contribute.

After his international goal, Gyokeres told fotbollskanalen, ‘It felt good and I felt involved, so it was fun to be out there playing.’ He added, ‘I want to play as much football as possible and I hope that will come.’ The forward also said, ‘I obviously need to do better, and I’m willing to do it, so it’s no problem.’

Gyokeres acknowledged a positive dialogue with Mikel Arteta, noting that the coach has been clear about his expectations. With Kai Havertz nursing an injury on international duty for Germany, the Swedish striker could finally start a Premier League match this season. Arsenal return to action on 10 October against Leeds United, a fixture that may prove decisive for Gyokeres’s quest for minutes. Our exclusive football newsletter continues to track the saga. He wants to prove himself in England’s top flight.