At a Glance:
- David Raya praises Viktor Gyokeres after Arsenal vs Atletico Madrid.
- Raya on why Gyokeres was crucial in the Champions League semi-final.
- William Saliba asks the Arsenal striker to keep stepping up.
Viktor Gyokeres had a night for the ages as he led the line expertly in Arsenal’s 1-0 win against Atletico Madrid in the second leg of the Champions League final.
Wayne Rooney hailed Gyokeres’ showing against Atletico Madrid as he imposed himself on the visitors’ defence at the Emirates Stadium.
The former Sporting CP striker’s hold-up play was sensational in particular, as he held off the Atleti defenders and brought his teammates into play time and again.
As Gyokeres stood out against Atletico Madrid, selflessly ran his socks and battle Diego Simeone’s backline, David Raya singled his teammate out for praise.
David Raya lauds Viktor Gyokeres after Arsenal vs Atletico Madrid
Speaking to CBS Sports, Raya initially complimented Arsenal for how well they managed the second half against an Atletico Madrid side that took the game to them.
“Obviously, second half, they were going to come at us, we managed the game very, very well.”
Raya went on to highlight Gyokeres’ involvement in terms of being an excellent target when his Arsenal side were forced to go long against Atletico Madrid.
“When we had to play, we played and when we had to go long, we did and credit to Viktor that he fights a lot. And in those situations, he won a lot of duels so that helped us to manage the game.”
William Saliba makes plea to Viktor Gyokeres after Arsenal beat Atletico Madrid
Gyokeres admitted he is feeling confident after having spearheaded Sweden’s qualification to the 2026 World Cup.
The 27-year-old’s newfound self-assuredness seems to on display recently, as he was tremendous against Fulham as well, as he bagged a brace and setting up Bukayo Saka’s wonderful strike.
The statistics further exemplify why Raya’s kind words towards Gyokeres were justified as he was brilliant against Atletico Madrid.
| Viktor Gyokeres vs Atletico Madrid | Statistics |
| Duels won | 3 |
| Clearances | 1 |
| Shots | 3 |
| Touches in opposition box | 4 |
After the contest, William Saliba lauded Gyokeres and hoped that he continues to deliver until the end of the season, saying: “Yeah, he played so well. No doubt, we have a big player up front. Gyokeres played so well.
“As well in the last game [against Fulham]. So, [I’m] so happy for him and I hope in the last four games, he scores again and gets some assists but I’m so happy with his performance today.”
