Arsenal’s £55 Million Man Under Scrutiny Before Premier League Kick-Off
Arsenal’s high-profile signing Viktor Gyokeres has yet to kick a ball in the Premier League, but the jury is already out for some pundits. Former Premier League striker Troy Deeney has voiced his concerns about the Swedish international, questioning whether Gyokeres can replicate his stunning form from Portugal in the high-pressure environment of English football.
Arsenal’s New No. 9: Big Expectations, Bigger Questions
The Gunners shelled out an initial £55 million—rising to £64 million with add-ons—to secure Gyokeres from Sporting Lisbon after a sensational stint in Portugal, where he netted an incredible 97 goals in 102 appearances. The 26-year-old emerged as Arsenal’s top striker target after new sporting director Andrea Berta took the reins, despite the club also being linked to Benjamin Sesko and Ollie Watkins.
Gyokeres arrives as a key component in Arsenal’s ambitious £195 million summer overhaul, making them the fourth-highest spenders across Europe this transfer window. Many within the fanbase and punditry believe he could be the final piece in Mikel Arteta’s attacking puzzle.
Troy Deeney’s Cautionary Take on Gyokeres
Despite the fanfare, Troy Deeney isn’t convinced. Writing in The Sun, the ex-Watford captain expressed skepticism about Gyokeres’ ability to deliver at the elite level.
I’m not convinced Viktor Gyokeres will score as many goals for Arsenal as people think, People underestimate the gap between dominating games in Portugal and leading the line for a club like Arsenal.
Troy deeney
Deeney acknowledged the striker’s impressive numbers but attributed much of that success to Sporting’s dominance in possession. He noted a noticeable dip in Gyokeres’ output following manager Ruben Amorim’s departure to Manchester United in late 2024.
“Heavier Shirt” and Missed Chances
Deeney also pointed to a couple of red flags from pre-season, where Gyokeres struggled to convert key chances. According to the former striker, the expectations and pressure at Arsenal might be proving a heavier burden than the Swede faced at Sporting.
He’ll get goals against teams like Leeds or Wolves, But can he deliver at Anfield or in a title decider? I’m not sure.
Troy Deeney
He also questioned Arsenal’s drawn-out pursuit of the striker and their previous interest in Sesko—suggesting the delay and indecision might reflect a lack of full confidence in Gyokeres from the club’s hierarchy.
Competition for the No. 9 Role
Deeney believes that internal competition could also limit Gyokeres’ role in the squad. With Kai Havertz likely to feature heavily this season, and Arteta’s clear admiration for the German forward, Gyokeres may not be guaranteed a consistent starting spot.
If Havertz hits form, Gyokeres might struggle to get back in. I can see that happening.
Troy Deeney
Despite his concerns, Deeney did acknowledge Gyokeres’ talent and potential to make an impact—especially against lower-tier opposition. However, the big question remains: can he step up when it matters most?
All Eyes on Old Trafford Debut
Gyokeres is expected to make his Arsenal debut in a marquee clash against Manchester United this Sunday—a perfect opportunity to silence his critics and prove he belongs among the Premier League’s elite strikers.
