Arteta Expects a Transformative Impact from Gyökeres at Arsenal
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his hope that Viktor Gyökeres will have a transformative effect on the team following his €63 million transfer from Sporting CP. The 27-year-old Swedish striker was presented at the National Stadium in Singapore, shortly before Arsenal beat Newcastle 3-2 on their pre-season tour. Gyökeres is Arsenal’s sixth signing this transfer window, but undoubtedly the most anticipated by the fans, who have urged Arteta to sign a striker to end a 21-year wait for the Premier League title.Arteta added that the goal is to generate “that internal emotion, that competition and those internal and external resources.” He wants the fans to be as enthusiastic as possible, believing in what the team can offer and creating a special atmosphere at the Emirates, which will be crucial for the club’s success.I hope so. We have some of them in this market too and that’s what we want to create as well.
Mikel Arteta
Although Gyökeres quickly joined Arsenal in Asia, Arteta indicated that his first appearance with the team might take a little longer. “He hasn’t had a single training session with the team since the last match with Sporting, when they were proclaimed champions,” explained Arteta.
The coach added that they will evaluate the player and that it is crucial that he reaches the appropriate level of physical fitness. Sources close to the club indicate that Arsenal is also considering signing Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace. When asked about the possibility of signing more players, Arteta replied that the market is still open and they will assess the situation with the squad. The match against Newcastle was competitive, with a penalty by Martin Ødegaard in the 85th minute that gave Arsenal the victory. Anthony Elanga opened the scoring for Newcastle, followed by a goal from Mikel Merino and an own goal by Alex Murphy that favored Arsenal. Jacob Murphy tied the match in the 58th minute. 15-year-old Max Dowman came on as a substitute and drew a decisive penalty after a foul by Joelinton. Meanwhile, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe confirmed that Alexander Isak will not join the team on their Asia tour, as the striker has communicated his desire to leave the club.
