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Graham Potter Defends Viktor Gyokeres After Difficult Start at Arsenal

The Sweden coach has called Gyokeres into the Nations League squad to use the international break to rebuild the striker's confidence.

Overview

  • Gyokeres has seen his role reduced at Arsenal this season, making only a 12-minute Premier League cameo in the opening four league fixtures and starting chiefly in cup and Champions League matches.
  • Mikel Arteta has consistently selected Kai Havertz as Arsenal's lead striker, leaving Gyokeres behind Havertz in the pecking order for league starts.
  • Match data and analysis show a sharp drop in Gyokeres' involvement, with very few touches in the box, limited shots and low duel wins in recent starts against Napoli and Ipswich Town.
  • On Wednesday Potter publicly defended Gyokeres, confirmed his inclusion in Sweden's Nations League squad and said the national team will work to restore the striker's form and confidence.
  • Gyokeres was Arsenal's top scorer in the 2025-26 title season with 21 goals so his recovery matters for Arteta's rotation plans and for Arsenal's need for a different attacking option if Havertz requires rest.