At A Glance:
- Jeremie Aliadiere backs Viktor Gyokeres to start the Champions League final.
- He insists Mikel Arteta should not be sacked even without trophies.
- Confidence inside the Arsenal squad remains high ahead of the run-in.
Arsenal are approaching a defining period under Mikel Arteta, with both domestic and European success still within reach.
As the Champions League final draws closer, key decisions continue to dominate the conversation, none more so than who leads the line.
Former Arsenal forward Jeremie Aliadiere has now had his say, offering a clear verdict on Viktor Gyokeres and the wider direction of this Arsenal side.
Speaking exclusively to ReadArsenal via William Hill Premier League odds, Aliadiere addressed a variety of topics, including Gyokeres, Bukayo Saka and Mikel Arteta.
Jeremie Aliadiere backs Viktor Gyokeres ahead of Champions League final
For Aliadiere, there is no uncertainty over who should start up front.
“Gyokeres for sure,” he said. “He is in form and can cause PSG defence problems and will be able to do, as he has all season, help the team up the field and he is so confident right now.”
That confidence is central to his argument.
Aliadiere pointed to the striker’s development across the season, particularly his ability to adapt and improve within Arsenal’s system.
“As a striker, coming into a new club and performing immediately isn’t always easy,” he explained. “You need to get to terms with your team mates, the style of play, the league and the pace of the game.”
However, Gyokeres has grown into the role.
“You look at the season up until now and Gyokeres has scored plenty of goals. Been a huge part of why Arsenal are title chasing and into the final,” Aliadiere added.
Mikel Arteta sack debate dismissed by Aliadiere
Aliadiere was equally clear when addressing Mikel Arteta’s future.
“No chance,” he said when asked whether the Arsenal manager should be sacked if trophies do not arrive this season.
The reasoning behind that stance was direct.
“Look at where Arsenal are now. Unbeaten in the Champions League, gone one better than last year and reached the final. Pushing for the Premier League title and on the brink again of securing it.”
For Aliadiere, the trajectory matters more than the immediate outcome.
“This Arsenal side are on the cusp of winning major trophies, so no way at all would I sack him. The team is only going to improve as well next year.”
Inside the Arsenal dressing room ahead of run-in
Beyond tactics and selection, Aliadiere highlighted the mentality within the squad as a key factor.
“Everyone is taking game by game, super excited by the team we have and everyone has a clear vision of what they want the outcome to be this season,” he said.
That unity appears to be one of Arsenal’s biggest strengths.
“Everyone is upbeat, loves the club and pulling in the same direction. The players are fully engaged and know as a group they can finish the season with silverware.”
Bukayo Saka and Arsenal’s future legacy
Looking ahead, Aliadiere also addressed where Bukayo Saka could rank among Arsenal’s greats.
“Let’s see what he wins, but he should definitely be up there for sure as one of the best,” he said.
However, he was quick to add context.
“All this squad have huge potential to be greats, but until they bring silverware, they are top players and can be compared with the winners of the past.”
For Saka, the path is clear.
“You want to think that Saka can win silverware and be in contention as one of the best players.”
Final words
Arsenal’s season now comes down to the biggest moments.
For Aliadiere, the direction is already clear.
Back the in-form striker. Trust the manager. Stay united as a squad.
Do that, and Arsenal may not just reach the highest level, they may finally deliver on it.
