Viktor Gyokeres’ start to life at Arsenal has not followed a straight line, however, the narrative around him now feels far clearer.
Rui Borges has offered a strong endorsement of the Swedish striker, insisting that Gyokeres simply needed time to adapt to Mikel Arteta’s system before showing his true level. That perspective arrives at an important moment. Questions surrounded Gyokeres earlier in the season, particularly given the fee Arsenal committed to secure him. Yet as performances improve and goals follow, those doubts continue to fade.
Consequently, this now looks less like a player under pressure and more like a striker finding rhythm at exactly the right time.
Rui Borges highlights key Viktor Gyokeres adjustment period
Borges pointed directly to adaptation as the key factor behind Gyokeres’ early inconsistency.
He explained that Arsenal’s style demands a specific understanding, especially for a central striker expected to link play while also delivering goals. Therefore, the adjustment period was not a concern internally, even if supporters questioned his output at first.
Moreover, Borges acknowledged that fans felt “suspicious” given the price paid. That reaction reflects modern football reality. Big fees bring instant expectation. However, he made it clear that patience has now been rewarded.
The truth, as Borges put it, has “come to the surface”.
Arsenal striker now proving his value
Gyokeres’ recent performances support that claim.
He has started to influence games more consistently, not only through goals but also through movement, physical presence and link-up play. As a result, Arsenal now look more direct and more decisive in attacking areas.
That shift became obvious during the Southampton clash, where Viktor Gyokeres’ impact off the bench strengthened calls for him to start for Arsenal moving forward
In addition, his growing confidence has helped ease pressure on other attacking players, allowing Arsenal to vary their approach rather than relying on wide combinations alone.
Arteta’s system demands more from strikers
Importantly, Gyokeres’ journey reflects a broader truth about playing under Arteta.
Arsenal do not use a traditional number nine role. Instead, the striker must combine pressing, positioning and technical awareness while still delivering goals. Therefore, adaptation often takes longer than expected.
That context explains why early criticism may have felt premature. It also explains why Arsenal remained patient.
Furthermore, the wider discussion around Arsenal’s attacking balance and what recent performances revealed about their frontline structure highlights how crucial the striker role remains in Arteta’s system
Timing aligns with Arsenal’s biggest tests
Gyokeres’ improvement arrives at a crucial stage of the season.
Arsenal now face defining fixtures in both the Premier League and Champions League, where fine margins will decide outcomes. Consequently, having a striker in form could shape their trajectory.
That importance becomes clearer when considering Arsenal’s next five fixtures and how they will impact both their title ambitions and European hopes.
Therefore, Borges’ confidence does not feel misplaced. It feels timely.
Doubts replaced by expectation
The narrative around Gyokeres has shifted.
Where there was once hesitation, there is now belief. Where there were questions, there are now answers beginning to form. Importantly, the expectation has also changed.
Gyokeres is no longer adjusting. He is delivering.
And if Borges is right, Arsenal’s striker will not just continue scoring.
He will define their season.
