Gyökeres debuts with Arsenal in defeat to Villarreal: Arteta criticizes "naivety"

Viktor Gyökeres debuts with Arsenal in defeat to Villarreal

Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres had his first start with Arsenal, but could not prevent his team’s 3-2 defeat against Villarreal in a pre-season match. Coach Mikel Arteta described the performance as “naive”. Gyökeres, recently signed from Sporting CP for 63 million euros plus 10 million in variables, was included in the starting eleven at the Emirates Stadium. The player was on the field for 62 minutes and Arteta was satisfied with his performance.

“We already broke that line today because I think it was very important for him to start a match and start to get the feeling and connection with the team,” Arteta commented.
Mikel Arteta

The coach added that he hoped Gyökeres would continue to improve his fitness and connection with the team in the upcoming matches. The first goal for Arsenal was scored by Christian Nørgaard, who headed it in after a corner in the 36th minute. The team was already behind on the scoreboard, as Nicolas Pépé and Etta Eyong had scored for Villarreal. During the break, Arteta made changes, including the entry of Cristhian Mosquera and Martín Zubimendi. Subsequently, he made more modifications, including the exit of Gyökeres and the entry of Martin Ødegaard. Arnaut Danjuma extended Villarreal’s lead, but Ødegaard narrowed the gap for Arsenal from the penalty spot. Despite this, Arsenal could not avoid defeat.

“Today I think the result is painful. I think they were very efficient, but we were naive, especially in the way we defended in open spaces and that is something that, especially because of the way we play, we have to absolutely nail,” Arteta said.
Mikel Arteta

A positive note for Arsenal was the first appearance of Noni Madueke, another of the new signings.

“He showed a lot of desire to come and join us from day one and I think what he has done is remarkable,” Arteta said.
Mikel Arteta

Arsenal will conclude their pre-season against Athletic Club on Saturday at the Emirates Stadium, before starting their Premier League campaign against Manchester United on August 17th.