Petit says Gyokeres has fallen out of favour at Arsenal
Inside the Emirates Stadium, a hushed tone surrounded the training ground as former France midfielder Emmanuel Petit warned that Viktor Gyokeres is ‘not welcome anymore’ at Arsenal, after the Swedish striker, who joined the club last summer from Sporting CP having netted 97 goals in 102 Portuguese league games, fell down the pecking order.
Goal tally and fan reception
Gyokeres managed 22 goals in all competitions during his debut season in English football, a respectable tally for a newcomer. Yet the numbers did not translate into widespread fan affection, and he has yet to start a Premier League match this campaign.
The resurgence of Kai Havertz, who has returned to form and fitness, has seen him firmly usurp Gyokeres as Mikel Arteta’s preferred centre‑forward. Havertz’s revival has limited Gyokeres’ opportunities further.
Arsenal’s intense summer pursuit of Julian Alvarez, a high‑profile striker, has been interpreted by Petit as a clear signal that Gyokeres is no longer a priority. The club’s activity in the transfer market underscores the shifting hierarchy.
Competition and transfer signals
‘He’s not the priority in the pecking order,’ Petit told Betfred, adding that Gyokeres appears to have lost confidence. He noted that Eberechi Eze looked nervous against Forest, highlighting the fierce competition for places in a squad rich in quality.
Petit claimed the club’s scouting of other forwards sends a clear message to Gyokeres that his future at Arsenal is uncertain. He suggested that the lack of minutes will make it difficult for the Swede to feature in crucial fixtures.
Former Liverpool striker Djibril Cisse echoed the criticism, saying Gyokeres was ‘not technical enough’ for Arteta’s side. Cisse reminded that Gyokeres dominated the Portuguese league, but adapting to the physicality and intensity of English football can take a year or two, especially in a team that values technical proficiency.
Gyokeres’ situation illustrates the fine margins between prolific scoring in Portugal and securing a foothold in the Premier League. As Arsenal continue to reshape their attacking options, the Swedish striker’s next move could hinge on whether he can rediscover his confidence and adapt to the technical demands of English sport. The debate has also featured prominently on Sport platforms.